Instead, it focused on the mission largely shifting from combat to training and assisting since the collapse of ISIS s so-called caliphate.
“The transition of the US and other international forces away from combat operations to training, equipping and assisting the ISF reflects the success of their strategic partnership and ensures support to the ISF s continued efforts to ensure ISIS can never again threaten Iraq’s stability.”
Most of the 2,500 US troops stationed in Iraq are there in an advisory capacity. It is unknown how many American combat troops remain there.
It is also unclear whether Wednesday s announcement has significant ramifications for future US troop levels.