Iraqi Troops Ambushed by Islamic State Amid Withdrawal Plans

Four Iraqi soldiers were killed in an ambush by the extremist Islamic State group. The attack coincides with the announcement of US troop withdrawals from Iraq, though they will continue operations in Syria until 2026. Despite losing territory, IS attacks have increased recently.

Four Iraqi troops were killed Wednesday in an ambush by the extremist Islamic State group, Iraq's Interior Ministry reported.

The attack follows the US military's recent announcement that coalition forces will withdraw from Iraq next year but remain in Syria until 2026.

Despite losing territory in 2019, IS continues its insurgency, with attacks nearly doubling this year and recruitment efforts ongoing. CENTCOM attributed 153 attacks to IS in the first half of 2024.

Ministry spokesperson Brig. Gen. Miqdad Miri said troops from the 42nd Brigade's Intelligence Unit were ambushed during a reconnaissance mission near Kirkuk, resulting in four fatalities and three injuries. "We have taken action to encircle and track down the terrorist cell," Miri added.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani asserted that military and security agencies are capable of maintaining national safety despite the increasing attacks. In northeastern Syria, US-led coalition forces and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces continue to pursue IS cells and leaders.

(With inputs from agencies.)