US Forces formally mark the end of the Iraqi mission
The US military's 8 year mission in Iraq has now formally been ended in an official ceremony to mark the withdrawal of troops by the end of the year. Iraqis are said to be delighted but observers are more cautious as to the political stability of the country without the American military presence.
At the same time as the troops are flying home, the diplomatic presence in Baghdad is increasing to almost 16000, making it the biggest US embassy in the world. The intention is to ensure a significant political and economic presence for the foreseeable future.
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