Baghdad observed Sovereignty Day on Saturday, a national holiday that commemorates the end of foreign military occupation in 2003. The occasion was marked by official ceremonies, flag‑raising events and public gatherings across the capital and other cities.

The day also saw the conclusion of the United States' long‑standing military presence in Iraq. The final convoy of U.S. service members left the country early on Saturday, ending a deployment that had lasted more than two decades. Iraqi authorities confirmed that the remaining American troops, who had been stationed at a handful of bases for training and advisory roles, had completed their exit without incident.

Iraqi officials described the withdrawal as a fulfillment of a bilateral agreement reached between Baghdad and Washington in recent months. The agreement stipulated a phased drawdown of U.S. forces, with the last phase scheduled for the first week of October. The government said the completion of the process reflects Iraq's sovereign right to determine its own security arrangements.

U.S. defense representatives, speaking to Al Jazeera — All News, indicated that the withdrawal was carried out in accordance with the timetable agreed upon with the Iraqi leadership. They noted that while combat troops have left, a small contingent of diplomatic and support personnel will remain to maintain liaison functions.

Security analysts note that the departure of U.S. forces could have implications for Iraq's internal stability and its ability to counter insurgent groups. The Iraqi Ministry of Defense has pledged to assume full responsibility for security operations, and the government has called on regional partners to respect Iraq's territorial integrity.

The celebrations were attended by senior Iraqi politicians, military officials and representatives of civil society. Speeches highlighted the symbolic importance of reclaiming full control over national territory and emphasized the country's commitment to rebuilding its institutions after years of conflict.

International observers have welcomed the peaceful conclusion of the U.S. military mission, describing it as a milestone in Iraq's post‑war transition. The United Nations and several neighboring states issued statements congratulating Iraq on the occasion and expressing hopes for continued stability in the region.

Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Al Jazeera — All News — original source: https://www.aljazeera.com/video/newsfeed/2026/10/1/iraq-celebrates-sovereignty-day-as-us-troops-complete-withdrawal?traffic_source=rss.