Iraqi Army Assumes Full Control of Ain al-Asad Airbase After US Withdrawal

• The Iraqi army has taken full control of Ain al-Asad Airbase following the withdrawal of US-led forces.
• The US withdrawal from the airbase, located in Western Iraq, was confirmed by the Iraqi defence ministry on Saturday.
• Washington and Baghdad agreed in 2024 on plans for coalition forces withdrawal and a shift to a bilateral security relationship.
• Ain al-Asad Airbase has historically hosted US and coalition troops and faced attacks from Iran-backed groups.
• An Iraqi army colonel confirmed the withdrawal, noting a few soldiers remained due to logistical issues, with full departure planned by end of 2026.

Why It Matters: Iraqi army now fully controls Ain al-Asad Airbase after US forces completed their withdrawal.