Iraq marks U.S. military withdrawal after more than two decades

Iraq has seen public celebrations following the departure of the final U.S. forces from the country, marking the end of a more than two-decade American military presence that began with the 2003 invasion.

The withdrawal formally closes a major chapter in Iraq’s modern history, which began with the U.S.-led operation that toppled Saddam Hussein.

American forces later withdrew from Iraq in 2011 before returning in 2014 as part of the international campaign against ISIS.

The latest departure comes as Iraq assumes greater responsibility for its own security, while Baghdad faces the challenge of balancing relations with the United States, Iran and other regional powers.

The end of the U.S. military mission marks a significant turning point for Iraq as the country enters a new phase without American combat forces on its soil.