YOU WONT BELIEVE: Baghdad | Mind Blowing Facts

Iraqi Kurds sees opportunities – and risks – in the withdrawal of US troops

When the last U.S. forces left Erbil Air Base in Iraqi Kurdistan on Sept. 30, 2026, it marked more than the removal of soldiers and military equipment. It also changed the security calculus in the region.

The Conversation · Oct 9

Israeli passengers returned home after terrifying flight and other top photos from the Middle East

Israelis returned after a pilot apparently tried to crash their flight; Palestinians buried Israeli strike victims; Baghdad ballet dancers prepared and racers braved mud in Lebanon. This photo gallery was curated by AP Photo Editor Enric Marti.

The Independent UK · Oct 1

Trump hails withdrawal of US troops from Iraq after 12-year ISIS mission

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday hailed the withdrawal of American troops from Iraq as an “orderly” end to a 12-year mission against the Islamic State group, as the last US forces left an air base in northern Iraq under a deal between Washington and Baghdad.

The Times of India · Oct 1

US troops wrap up Iraq mission 12 years after Islamic State offensive

Iraq is closing a major chapter in its post-2003 history as the US-led coalition against Islamic State ends its mission – more than two decades after France opposed the invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

Radio France Internationale · Sep 30

US completes military withdrawal from Iraq after years of operations

The US military concludes its 12-year involvement in Iraq combating ISIS. With the completion of their troop withdrawal from a northern air base, the Iraqi government has welcomed this move, considering it a step towards greater national autonomy. However, concerns linger about the influence of Iranian-backed militias and their continued…

The Times of India · Sep 30

'48 Hours To Reverse It': Basra Leader Threatens Airport Disruption Over Iraq's Suspension of Iran Flights

Basra lawmakers give Baghdad 48 hours to reverse Iran flight restrictions as airport disruption threats intensify.

International Business Times UK · Sep 30

Explained: How the US controls Iraq's oil revenues

US troops are set to leave their last bases in Iraq, but Washington will retain significant economic leverage through Iraq’s oil revenues, which remain held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The arrangement supports financial stability and dollar access, but has also given the US influence over Baghdad…

The Economic Times · Sep 30

As the last US troops exit Iraq, Kurdish fears rise and militias celebrate

The last U.S. troops are leaving Iraq under an agreement between Baghdad and Washington

The Independent UK · Sep 30

America’s final military withdrawal from Iraq is a major bonus for Iran

The last of the US-led coalition forces are leaving Iraq. It’s a significant bonus for Iran. The withdrawal date, September 30, was also the date by which Baghdad had pledged to bring numerous powerful Iran-backed militias under state control. But this deadline looks certain to be missed.

The Conversation · Sep 29

Photos show Baghdad Ballet Academy students taking the stage at Baghdad's Al-Sinbad Theater

Students from Baghdad’s Ballet Academy performed a production titled “Mermaid” before an audience at Al-Sinbad Theater on Friday.

The Independent UK · Sep 27