Iraq sets September 30 deadline for US-led coalition withdrawal

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zeydi reiterated that the U.S.-led coalition's military mission in Iraq will end on September 30, setting a firm timeline for the drawdown of foreign forces. The September 30 conclusion marks the end of the coalition's military presence in the country, though the scope of the withdrawal is limited to the conclusion of the military mission. Al-Zeydi also addressed the disarmament of Iran-linked armed groups operating in Iraq, saying the prime minister's office is focused on bringing their weapons under state control. The issue remains a central security concern for the Baghdad government. The coalition's exit date and the handling of Iran-backed militias form two of the main items on Iraq's security agenda, alongside ongoing bilateral talks with Washington over the future of the coalition mission. No further details on the implementation of the September 30 timeline were immediately available.