The U.S.-led military coalition is preparing to withdraw its forces from Iraq’s Kurdistan region, transferring bases to Iraqi forces by a September 30 deadline. This withdrawal coincides with a separate, complex deadline set by the Iraqi government for the disarmament of Iran-backed militias, raising significant questions about regional security. Government spokesman Haider Al Aboudi confirmed that co-ordination is ongoing with the international coalition to inventory sites and hand them over to competent Iraqi forces.
This September 30 deadline was agreed by Baghdad and Washington in 2024, marking the third year of this broader agreement. The mission of the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq is transforming from combat and advisory roles to bilateral security co-operation. Kurdistan hosts several key coalition sites, which have been vital for training, logistics, and air operations against ISIS remnants.
The Iranian Proxy Threat
The Iraqi government has also set the same September 30 deadline for the disarmament of Iran-backed militias. Mr. Al Aboudi described this process of bringing their weapons under state control as "complex." Dialogue is ongoing and under the direct supervision of Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi.
Iraq’s leading political force has provided significant support to the government’s efforts. This group issued its strongest warning yet to the militias, stating that failure to comply with the September 30 deadline would result in terrorism charges. This stern warning followed a meeting of the State Administration Coalition, which comprises top Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish political parties forming the government.
Western Retreat and Regional Instability
Local officials reported "unusual movement" of U.S. forces in the Kurdistan Region this month, including convoys and equipment transfers observed in Erbil. The Pentagon hasn't publicly detailed its withdrawal plan for the Kurdistan Region. U.S. officials previously stated any transition would be done "in co-ordination with the Iraqi government" and would not leave gaps in the fight against ISIS.
Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi’s government has framed the transition as a step toward full Iraqi sovereignty over security matters. However, co-operation with the U.S. and other coalition partners is expected to continue in air defense, intelligence, and counter-terrorism. Security analysts noted the handover carries significant operational and political weight, as Iraqi forces will assume responsibility for bases previously used by coalition trainers.
Iraq's Sovereignty Challenge
The move also answers long-standing demands from factions in parliament for a clear timeline for the end of the coalition’s presence. Mr. Al Aboudi acknowledged "concerns and reservations" about the process. He maintained that the government is moving deliberately and "is proceeding in an organised manner and with measured steps until we reach September 30."
After September 30, Mr. Al Aboudi stated, "the final word will be with Iraqi law and the constitution. The state will be the one holding the force." The government has not specified the number of sites being transferred or the number of personnel leaving. The simultaneous deadlines for U.S. withdrawal and militia disarmament underscore the precarious security environment in a region still battling ISIS remnants and facing persistent threats from Iran's proxy network.