SOUTHWEST ASIA –
The United States will draw down its presence in Iraq in support of the President’s decision to reduce forces in the country according to the commander of U.S. Central Command.
Gen. Frank McKenzie Jr., commander of U.S. Central Command, said Nov. 19, 2020, conditions on the ground are enabling Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve to reduce from roughly 3,000 to 2,500 troops.
“The progress of the Iraqi Security Forces has allowed the United States to reduce posture in Iraq,” said McKenzie. “We have closed bases and turned them over to Iraqi control and are moving forward with the President’s decision to reduce our forces in Iraq to 2,500.”
Despite the drawdown, McKenzie explained the relationship with Iraqi officials remains a high priority for U.S. CENTCOM and the CJTF-OIR leadership.
“The government of Iraq has clearly indicated it wants to maintain its partnership with the United States and coalition forces as we continue to finish the fight against ISIS,” said McKenzie.
The force size in Iraq will be effective by Jan. 15, 2021. There are no plans to draw down the force of approximately 1,000 troops from Syria.