Pentagon Acknowledges Over 2,500 U.S. Troops in Iraq

The U.S. Department of Defense acknowledged on Monday the presence of over 2,500 American troops in Iraq, a figure disclosed periodically.

The Pentagon also stated that troop numbers in Syria have increased over the past few years due to heightened threats but did not reveal specific figures.

“There are at least 2,500 U.S. personnel in Iraq, plus some temporary support forces deployed periodically,” Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder said in a statement reported by the Associated Press.

The U.S. concluded sensitive negotiations with Iraq in September, agreeing to begin troop withdrawals after the November elections. The agreement includes ending the mission against ISIS by September 2025, with some forces remaining until 2026 to support operations in Syria. Additional forces may remain in Kurdistan at the regional government’s request.

Last week, Ryder confirmed the presence of about 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria, more than double the previously reported figure of 900. He noted that an additional 1,100 troops were deployed for short-term assignments, such as force protection, transportation, and maintenance.