The United States has finalized the withdrawal of its military forces from Iraq, marking the end of a long-standing security presence in the country. The transition of power and security responsibilities to Iraqi authorities has been met with varying responses across the nation’s diverse political and ethnic groups.

In Baghdad, the departure of U.S. forces is being framed as a moment of national sovereignty, with reports of public celebrations marking the exit. Supporters of the withdrawal view the move as a necessary step toward full independence and the removal of foreign influence from Iraqi internal affairs.

Conversely, Kurdish leaders and communities have expressed significant apprehension regarding the power vacuum left by the U.S. exit. Kurdish officials have voiced concerns that the withdrawal could destabilize regional security, potentially leaving their autonomous region vulnerable to internal political pressure or external threats. While Baghdad views the withdrawal as a milestone for national unity, Kurdish stakeholders are emphasizing the potential for increased instability in the absence of a U.S. security buffer.