US President Joe Biden said Monday the U.S. combat mission in Iraq will conclude by the end of the year. The announcement comes on the heels of Biden's decision to withdraw fully from Afghanistan nearly 20 years after the U.S. launched that war in response to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
For years, U.S. troops have played support roles in Iraq and in neighboring Syria. After the Islamic State capture of large parts of Iraq, the US sent back its troops to help fight the extremists.
Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office session with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Biden said his administration remained committed to a partnership with Iraq.
US currently has about 2,500 troops on the ground in Iraq, which are routinely targeted by Iran-backed militias.