Leaving Iraq may be Washington’s wisest choice: Foreign Policy
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Foreign Policy contends that after 20 years of American occupation in Iraq, it's time for the Biden administration to downsize the American military presence there.
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US soldiers from the 3rd Brigade on their way to perform 'perimeter security' at Camp Adderon, US occupation base near Nasiriyah, Iraq on December 16, 2011. (AP)
According to a report published by Foreign Policy on Monday, the United States carried out two rounds of airstrikes against Iraqi Resistance forces earlier this month in response to the death of three US soldiers in Jordan in late January.
However, Foreign Policy suggests that these strikes may provoke significant political backlash in Baghdad, with uncertain implications for the US military presence in Iraq.
Sudani announced last month that his government would initiate negotiations with Washington to end the coalition's presence in Iraq.
For years, the United States has wasted significant resources and personnel in Iraq. The report indicates that Baghdad may eventually determine it's time for the United States and the coalition to withdraw, allowing Iraq to independently address the ongoing threat posed by ISIS.
US influence weakens
It suggests that twenty years after the invasion of Iraq, it is now appropriate for the Biden administration to begin considering the optimal approach for minimizing the US military presence there, adding that "while American forces in Iraqi Kurdistan act as a crucial node for logistical support for the forces in Syria, this presence may also no longer be necessary if Washington withdraws its small military contingent from Syria."
The report also says that aside from the Kurdistan contingent, the ongoing US military presence in Iraq is becoming less beneficial. It highlights the risk of damaging US credibility with a sudden withdrawal similar to the events in Afghanistan. Moreover, pulling out from Iraq could solidify the perception of a US military retreat, especially considering the strategic shift towards focusing on Asia, the report added.
US presence 'not beneficial'
That said, Foreign Policy mentions that "the coalition’s counter-Islamic State operation in Iraq is largely complete," adding that the continued presence of American forces does little to prevent progress in Iranian-Iraqi relations.
The Magazine pointed out that "moving the majority of US troops out of harm’s way in Iraq could put Washington in a better position vis-à-vis the Iraqi government, especially if the forces remain in Kurdistan, where the United States is still welcome."
"A phaseout or downsizing of Washington’s longstanding troop presence does not imply the end of US military engagement with Iraq, US retrenchment from the region," recognition of Iranian regional influence, the report concludes.
