Iraq announces end of International Coalition mission against ISIS

Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, officially announced the conclusion of the International Coalition's mission to combat ISIS in Iraq. During a ceremony in Baghdad marking Sovereignty Day on September 30, 2026, al-Zaidi stated that the mission ended in victory, marking a transition where Iraq assumes full responsibility for its own security and stability.

Al-Zaidi emphasized that while the formal mission has ended, the fight against terrorism continues. He noted that the cooperation between friendly nations and the Iraqi people successfully addressed a period of extreme extremism. He further stressed that there shall be “no weapons or power outside the state and the law,” aligning with constitutional mandates and the will of the people.

The International Coalition also officially announced the conclusion of ‘Operation Decisive Strength’ in Iraq, completing the withdrawal of its final forces from Erbil province. Al-Zaidi indicated that security cooperation with coalition partners will remain open and will evolve to focus on more effective methods, including the use of digital technologies to support stability.