Trump declares US military no longer needed in Iraq as Baghdad shifts course

President Donald Trump said Tuesday the United States no longer believes it needs a military presence in Iraq, arguing Iran has been weakened enough for Baghdad to stand on its own as Washington prepares to end its coalition mission later in 2026. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Zaidi echoed that vision, declaring that armed factions operating outside state control would have "no justification" once the coalition mission concludes and insisting Iraq's security forces would be capable of protect