WASHINGTON, July 15 — The United States will complete the withdrawal of its military forces from Iraq by September 30, 2026, ending a 23-year military presence that began with the 2003 invasion of Iraq, US President Donald Trump and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced during a meeting at the White House on Tuesday.

Speaking alongside Al-Zaidi in the Oval Office, President Trump said Washington no longer considers a permanent US military presence in Iraq necessary, citing the country’s improved security capabilities and expanding economic cooperation with American companies.

“We don’t think we need the military there anymore,” Trump said, adding that the bilateral relationship has evolved beyond military cooperation. He noted that while the United States remains prepared to assist Iraq if needed, it no longer believes a continued troop deployment is required.

Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, speaking through an interpreter, confirmed that all US military personnel would leave Iraq by the end of September. He emphasized that the withdrawal would not affect the presence of American businesses, stating that US companies would continue operating in the country.

The announcement marks the conclusion of a military mission that began with the US-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein in 2003 and later shifted its focus to supporting Iraqi forces in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) group.

The withdrawal signals a new phase in US-Iraq relations, with both governments highlighting continued economic engagement while concluding the long-running military mission.