US Troops Leave Iraq after Two Decades, Raising Fears of ISIS Resurgence

US forces have completed their withdrawal from their remaining bases in Iraq, ending a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion. The departure comes amid concerns that the exit could create security gaps and provide an opportunity for the Islamic State, or ISIS, to rebuild its capabilities.

The withdrawal was agreed upon by Washington and Baghdad in 2024. Most US troops had already left Iraqi bases, with the remaining personnel concentrated mainly in the northern Kurdish region. Iraqi security forces are now expected to take primary responsibility for counterterrorism operations.

Concerns Over ISIS Sleeper Cells

Although ISIS lost control of the large territories it once held in Iraq and Syria, the group continues to maintain sleeper cells in parts of Iraq. Iraqi security officials have warned that the absence of US intelligence, surveillance and logistical support could make it easier for militants to reorganise.

Reuters reported that Iraqi officials had identified a suspected ISIS cell preparing suicide attacks around the time of the US withdrawal. Kurdish commanders have also reported increased movement by suspected sleeper cells in recent weeks.

At its peak, ISIS controlled roughly one-third of Iraq and carried out widespread attacks before Iraqi forces, supported by the US-led coalition and other armed groups, pushed the organisation out of its territorial strongholds between 2014 and 2017.

Iran-Backed Militias Gain Greater Space

The US departure is also being closely watched because of the influence of Iran-backed armed groups inside Iraq. Tehran and its allied groups have described the withdrawal as a victory, while Iraqi officials face the challenge of managing powerful militias that have not fully accepted calls to disarm.

The withdrawal comes as the wider region remains affected by the US-Iran conflict. US forces and bases in Iraq had faced attacks from Iran-aligned groups, particularly in the Kurdish region.

Iraq Faces New Security Responsibilities

Iraqi security forces, including Kurdish Peshmerga units, will now have to manage the country's counterterrorism operations without the same level of direct US military support.

US forces had provided intelligence, aerial surveillance and reconnaissance that helped track ISIS movements. Iraqi security officials have therefore raised questions about whether the country's forces have sufficient capabilities to respond to emerging threats, particularly attacks involving drones.

The withdrawal marks another major turning point in Iraq's post-2003 history. While the end of the US military presence fulfils a long-standing demand for greater Iraqi sovereignty, the country's security institutions now face the task of preventing militant groups from exploiting any gaps left by the departing forces.