U.S. ends Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq after 12-year counter-ISIS campaign
What happened
U.S. Central Command officially concluded Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) in Iraq following the withdrawal of all American equipment and personnel from Erbil Air Base. The operation, which began in 2014 to counter the Islamic State's presence across Iraq and the broader Middle East, has ended after what CENTCOM characterized as significant progress against ISIS. The announcement came via official CENTCOM channels on September 30, 2026.
Context and assessment
The closure of OIR marks a symbolic end to America's primary military counter-terrorism mission in Iraq, though related operations continue. CENTCOM simultaneously announced ongoing counter-ISIS efforts in Syria in coordination with coalition partners and the Syrian government, suggesting the broader anti-ISIS campaign persists in modified form. The timing follows a broader recalibration of U.S. military presence in Iraq, where Iranian-backed militias have long sought American withdrawal. The operation's conclusion reflects both operational achievements against ISIS's territorial and organizational capacity since 2014, and shifting regional dynamics where Iraq's government has asserted greater sovereignty over its airspace and military partnerships.
Sources and confidence
Sourced from CENTCOM's official statement via X (@Osint613). Single-source reporting limits independent cross-confirmation. Confidence score reflects the official nature of the announcement but the single reporting channel. Confirmation through independent military or diplomatic channels, or additional CENTCOM media releases, would increase confidence.
Location
The announcement originates from U.S. Central Command (Washington, D.C.). Erbil Air Base, the departure point, lies in the Kurdistan Region of northern Iraq, approximately 350 kilometers north of Baghdad, serving as a major hub for U.S.-led coalition operations against ISIS.
Related events nearby
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- Last US military forces withdraw from Iraq by September 30, 2025, ending 20-year presence marked by 4,500 Amer2026-09-29 12:26 UTC · Statement · Washington, D.C., USA
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