The US-Iraq Higher Military Commission (HMC) is currently engaged in talks to define the future of security cooperation between the two countries, including the ongoing role of US forces in Iraq, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder announced.

These discussions aim to shift from the current international coalition's focus on defeating the Islamic State (IS) to establishing a long-term bilateral security partnership between the US and Iraq.

During a press briefing, Ryder emphasized Iraq's importance as a key partner in maintaining regional stability, particularly in counterterrorism efforts. “We highly value Iraq as a partner,” Ryder stated. “They play a very important role in the region when it comes to security and stability, particularly on the counterterrorism front.”

The HMC was established following the US-Iraq Joint Security Cooperation Dialogue in August 2023. Since then, working group meetings have been held throughout the year to further discussions.

The commission's deliberations are expected to shape the future presence of US forces in Iraq by assessing the current threat from IS, operational requirements, and the readiness of Iraqi security forces.

Approximately 2,500 US troops remain stationed in Iraq under the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, where their mission is to advise and assist both Iraqi and Peshmerga forces in the fight against IS militants.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is actively involved in discussions regarding the future of the US military presence in Iraq. Ryder noted that any final decisions informed by the HMC’s findings will be made by senior US and Iraqi leadership.