U.S. forces complete withdrawal from Iraq amid security fears

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The withdrawal is being celebrated by Iran and its allies but has prompted concern in Baghdad and Washington over Iraq’s ability to contain militant groups without the former U.S. military presence. Reuters reported that the departure could strengthen Iranian-backed factions and create opportunities for Islamic State to regroup. The move follows more than two decades of U.S. involvement in Iraq, during which 4,500 Americans died, and comes as Qatar promotes diplomacy aimed at ending the broader seven-month U.S.-Iran war.

Sources: Reuters