Out of Iraq

The United States has closed its last base in Iraq, ending a 12-year mission to eradicate ISIS and potentially ending a 23-year stretch of near-constant presence in the country since the 2003 post-9/11 invasion. The initial invasion began as Operation Iraqi Freedom and was aimed at terrorism and weapons of mass destruction generally, while the more recent phase was targeted specifically at expelling ISIS. In 2024, the U.S. agreed to begin withdrawing troops, a commitment which has now been fulfilled.

Analysis and eternal perspective: War has very long and strong tentacles. That is perhaps the most succinct practical takeaway of this story. Whether you agree or disagree with the original 2003 decision to invade, it triggered 23 years of engagement by U.S. troops. The short lull between missions is notable but also a reminder of how difficult it is to truly end a long-term military presence. The weeks and months ahead will be a critical time for the people and government of Iraq to demonstrate self-governance and security, and to ward off the ever-present threat of terrorism.

Psalm 34:14 is one of our most-often quoted verses here at The Equipped: “Seek peace and pursue it.” We should rejoice in the news of an ebb to war. However, we should remain mindful that the command to pursue peace is a reminder of its elusive nature. The closure of a base today is far from a guarantee that peace in the region is secure or permanent. Jesus followers should prefer peace, seek peace, and pursue peace, but we should do so mindful that it is difficult to achieve. Our world is a volatile one that will continue to have conflicts, and our pursuit of peace will be imperfect. In that imperfection, we should aim for persistence.