US President Donald Trump and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi on Tuesday confirmed that all American troops will withdraw from Iraq by 30 September, describing the move as the beginning of a new phase in relations between the two countries. Speaking at the White House, Trump said Washington no longer believes a US military presence in Iraq is necessary, although the United States would remain ready to assist Iraq if needed. He also said American oil companies would make major investments in Iraq, adding that bilateral ties were shifting from a security-focused partnership to one centred on economic cooperation. Al-Zaidi described his visit to Washington as the start of a new economic partnership, saying that as US forces leave Iraq, American companies will expand their presence and investment in the country.
