Iraqi Official: Talks to End the Coalition May Continue Beyond US Elections

An Iraqi official revealed that discussions between the United States and Iraq regarding the termination of the US-led military coalition in the country may extend beyond the upcoming US presidential elections scheduled for November. This decision follows mutual attacks between US forces and armed Shiite factions amid a regional conflict linked to the Israeli war in Gaza. These attacks have been paused for over a month now to allow for negotiations. The government in Baghdad, supported by Shiite parties and armed factions, is trying to prevent Iraq from becoming a battleground for foreign powers once again. Baghdad is a rare ally to both Tehran and Washington. Politicians view the technical talks taking place through a joint military committee as a way to buy time amid differing views on how the military relationship between the two countries should evolve. Former Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, a moderate member of the ruling Shiite coalition (the coordinating framework), told reporters last week that he doesn't believe the Americans want a complete withdrawal. He added that he also does not see a desire among Iraqi political forces to fully dispense with the Americans, despite the current sentiment that their presence is causing more problems than providing solutions.