After two decades of military presence, the United States concludes its combat operations in Iraq, marking a significant geopolitical shift in the Middle East. The withdrawal underscores Iran's expanding regional influence and highlights unresolved sectarian tensions. The pullout reflects changing U.S. strategic priorities while leaving complex security challenges and questions about Iraq's stability amid proxy conflicts and political instability in the region.

Summary auto-generated by AI from the original publisher's content. Editorial standards.