US Withdraws From Iraq After Two Decades, Retains Regional Intelligence Capabilities

The United States is withdrawing its remaining forces from Iraq after two decades while maintaining intelligence capabilities in the region, according to US officials.

The last remaining troops are repositioning to Jordan, the officials said, shifting the location of the American military presence outside Iraq.

Jordan serves as the headquarters for the ongoing mission to combat Islamic State militants. The redeployment comes as that mission continues.

The withdrawal marks a change in the US military footprint in Iraq, rather than an end to its regional role. Washington is retaining intelligence capabilities as its remaining troops relocate.