Iraq (The COW News Digital)Iraq has formally taken control of the Ain al-Asad Airbase following the withdrawal of US and coalition forces, marking a significant development in the country’s security and defense landscape. The Iraqi Ministry of Defense confirmed that national forces have assumed full authority over the strategic military installation located in western Iraq.
According to international media reports, the handover comes as part of a bilateral agreement reached between Iraq and the United States in 2024. Under the terms of the agreement, Washington acknowledged that US-led coalition forces would gradually withdraw from certain military sites, including Ain al-Asad, and transfer control back to Iraqi authorities.
Ain al-Asad Airbase has long been one of the most important military facilities in Iraq, serving as a key hub for US and allied operations against militant groups, including remnants of the so-called Islamic State. At its peak, the base hosted around 2,700 US and coalition troops, although reports in previous years suggested that troop numbers fluctuated depending on regional security conditions.
The Iraqi Ministry of Defense stated that the transfer of control reflects growing confidence in the capabilities of Iraqi security forces to manage and secure critical military infrastructure independently. Officials described the move as a step toward strengthening national sovereignty and reducing the presence of foreign troops on Iraqi soil.
US officials have previously emphasized that the drawdown of forces does not signal an end to cooperation with Iraq. Instead, Washington has said future engagement will focus on advisory roles, training, and intelligence-sharing, rather than direct combat operations. Iraqi officials have echoed this position, noting that security cooperation with international partners will continue within a new framework.
The transition follows years of public and political debate within Iraq over the presence of foreign troops. Several Iraqi political factions and armed groups have repeatedly called for a complete withdrawal of US forces, arguing that Iraq’s security forces are capable of maintaining stability on their own.
Security analysts say the handover of Ain al-Asad could have broader implications for regional dynamics, particularly amid ongoing tensions involving armed groups and shifting alliances in the Middle East. They note that the base’s future role will likely be determined by Iraq’s evolving defense strategy and internal security needs.
The Iraqi government has not disclosed whether the base will continue to host any foreign personnel in a limited capacity or be used exclusively by Iraqi forces. Officials stressed, however, that the transition was conducted in an orderly manner and in coordination with international partners.
As Iraq assumes full control of one of its most prominent military installations, authorities say the focus will remain on maintaining security, protecting sovereignty, and preventing the resurgence of extremist threats.
