Iraq Confirms US Troop Withdrawal by September 30

Iraq says US troops will complete their withdrawal by September 30 as both countries shift their relationship from military cooperation to economic partnership. During talks in Washington, Iraq and the US also discussed major investments in the country's energy sector, including a planned multi-billion-dollar oil pipeline project.

US troops are expected to complete their withdrawal from Iraq by September 30, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced during a meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House.
The announcement marks a significant milestone in relations between Washington and Baghdad as both countries seek to shift their partnership from military cooperation to economic investment.

IRAQ CONFIRMS SEPTEMBER WITHDRAWAL

Prime Minister al-Zaidi said all remaining American troops are scheduled to leave Iraq by the end of September.
The announcement came during his official visit to Washington, where he held talks with President Donald Trump.
Trump welcomed the plan, saying the United States no longer believed a military presence was necessary in Iraq.
The US previously maintained about 2,500 troops in Iraq to support operations against the Islamic State group, although that number has declined in recent months.

GOVERNMENT LINKS EXIT TO SECURITY PLANS

The Iraqi government said the troop withdrawal is tied to broader efforts to strengthen state authority.
According to al-Zaidi, Baghdad intends to ensure that no armed group operates outside government control after the departure of US forces.
The Iraqi leader said all weapons should remain under the authority of the state, a move seen as targeting powerful Iran-backed militias operating in the country.

FOCUS SHIFTS TO ECONOMIC COOPERATION

Beyond security issues, al-Zaidi's visit focused heavily on expanding economic ties between Iraq and the United States.
The Iraqi prime minister said the withdrawal of American troops would be followed by increased participation from US businesses.
He described the next phase of relations as one centred on investment, development and long-term economic cooperation.

TRUMP PROMISES MAJOR BUSINESS DEALS

President Trump said Iraq possesses enormous economic potential because of its vast oil resources.
He indicated that Washington and Baghdad would pursue several business agreements aimed at creating jobs and expanding energy cooperation.
Although he did not provide specific details, Trump expressed confidence that the two countries would deepen their commercial partnership.

ENERGY PROJECTS UNDER DISCUSSION

Iraqi officials said discussions include major investments in the country's oil, gas and electricity sectors.
According to officials, Iraq, Chevron, TI Capital and Qatar's UCC are expected to sign an agreement to construct a major oil pipeline capable of transporting up to two million barrels per day.
The proposed pipeline would link Basra in southern Iraq to Haditha before extending to export terminals in Turkey and Syria.
If completed, the project could significantly strengthen Iraq's energy export infrastructure and regional connectivity.

NEW PHASE IN US-IRAQ RELATIONS

The planned troop withdrawal and the expected investment agreements signal a new chapter in US-Iraq relations.
Instead of focusing primarily on military cooperation, both governments are seeking to build a partnership centred on economic development, energy investment and long-term regional stability.
Observers say the success of the transition will depend on Iraq's ability to maintain internal security while attracting the foreign investment needed to support its economic growth.