US forces leave Iraq, raising fears of Iran-backed militias amid power vacuum

Key Points:

• US forces completed their withdrawal from Iraq on Wednesday, raising concerns about a potential security vacuum that could empower Iranian-backed militias and allow the Islamic State group to regroup.
• The pullout, agreed under President Joe Biden and executed by the Trump administration, is seen as a victory by Iran and its allies, who have significant influence in Iraq through proxy groups.
• Despite broad Iraqi public support for the US departure, doubts remain about the readiness of Iraqi security forces, trained and funded by the US, to maintain stability and counter threats like the Islamic State.
• Analysts warn that the absence of US military presence could embolden Iran-backed militias to expand their influence in Iraqi politics and institutions, while sleeper cells of the Islamic State may exploit weakened security.
• US troops had provided critical intelligence and aerial support against Islamic State militants, and experts emphasize the need for Iraq to have a robust contingency plan to address emerging security challenges, including potential drone threats.