US transitions to training and advising Iraqi forces, marking formal end of combat mission.

The US formally concluded its combat mission in Iraq, transitioning to a role of training and advising Iraqi forces. This shift marked a significant milestone in the long-standing US military presence in Iraq, which began in 2003 following the invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein. The decision to end the combat mission came after years of intense fighting and efforts to stabilize the country. The focus was now on supporting Iraqi security forces as they took on more responsibility for maintaining peace and security within their borders. The move was also in line with the agreement between the US and Iraqi governments that aimed to gradually transfer security control to Iraqi forces. The shift in mission had a direct impact on the dynamics of the military presence in Iraq, with a reduction in the number of US combat troops and an increased emphasis on training Iraqi soldiers and police. It was a pivotal moment in the US-Iraq relationship, signaling a new phase of cooperation and partnership centered on building Iraq's capacity to secure its own territory. #Iraq #USmilitary #trainingmission #partnership