Decisive US Stance on Future Withdrawal and Military Presence in Iraq

A senior US official affirmed that ISIS no longer poses a systemic threat to Iraq's security and stability, while pointing out that the threat has not completely vanished yet. The official explained that American forces, alongside allies, have sacrificed thousands of military personnel and civilians during the battles against the extremist group. He noted that despite ongoing risks, the Iraqi security forces possess the will, capability, and necessary leadership to confront remaining remnants of danger. He indicated preparations to transition the international coalition's mission within the country into bilateral cooperation frameworks, with the continuation of joint partnership with the Iraqi side in the future.