U.S. forces complete Iraq withdrawal, raising regional security risks

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The withdrawal is being celebrated by Iran and its allies as a strategic victory, while Iraqi and regional observers fear the departure could shift the balance of power further toward Tehran. The United States has maintained a major role in Iraq since the 2003 invasion, with about 4,500 Americans killed during more than two decades of war. The transition comes amid a broader seven-month conflict between Iran and the United States and parallel Qatari efforts to broker trust-building measures between Washington and Tehran.

Sources: Reuters