Zaidi Announces Iraq Will Be Free of Foreign Troops by October 1
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi announced today that Iraq will be free of any foreign military presence by October 1, following a final agreement with the U.S. Central Command.
Agreement Details
Al-Zaidi received U.S. Central Command leader Charles Brad Cooper and reaffirmed both sides' commitment to the agreed timetable for ending the international coalition’s mission in Iraq. According to the prime minister’s office statement, September 30 will be the definitive deadline for the troops' withdrawal.
The prime minister said the exit will restore full Iraqi sovereignty over its territory and enable the country to develop its own security and defense capabilities, ensuring the protection of its security and stability.
Political Context
This move aligns with Baghdad’s effort to reinforce national sovereignty and keep arms under state control as mandated by law, a prerequisite for moving toward a new phase of development and prosperity.
Al-Zaidi emphasized that state monopoly over weapons strengthens governmental authority and contributes to lasting stability.
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