President Joe Biden, who will host Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi Monday, is expected to launch a “new phase” of the US military presence in Iraq, formally ending combat operations but stopping short of announcing a full withdrawal.
The US troop presence in Iraq will be at the heart of the meeting between the president and Kadhemi, a weakened leader who is under intense pressure from pro-Tehran armed factions who demand the withdrawal of 2,500 US troops still deployed in Iraq.
But the question of whether Baghdad has what it takes to stand up to residual Islamic State jihadist cells in the country remains.
Biden to meet Iraq PM, announce new phase of US deployment france24.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from france24.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.