International

U.S. forces quit Iraqi cities

DUBAI: A string of government-orchestrated celebrations with strong nationalistic overtones marked the exit of American forces from Iraqi cities and towns.

Prime Minister Nouri Al Maliki hailed the withdrawal of the American troops from urban areas as a “great victory” that liberated the country from foreign occupiers. The government described Tuesday as “a day of national sovereignty”, projecting the pull-out as a reassertion of the sovereignty that the country had been robbed off with the Anglo-American invasion in March 2003. Since Monday, Iraqi security forces have been parading through the streets in their vehicles with patriotic songs blaring from military posts. Analysts say Mr. Maliki would like to keep up the mood of national success from which he could benefit in elections slated for later this year.

The Americans have withdrawn on the basis of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) they signed with the Iraqis. Under this agreement, the U.S. troops have to pull out of urban areas by June 30, 2009. A total withdrawal is scheduled for the end of 2011.

Despite the withdrawal, it is likely that thousands of U.S. troops will remain stationed on the outskirts of cities. They are expected to conduct military operations outside city limits or in risk-prone belts surrounding major cities. Over the last 10 days, there has been a surge in violence in Iraq leading to 250 deaths. This has generated apprehensions whether there would be resurgence of near-civil war conditions. The Iraqi government is dominated by Shias, which could alienate the Sunni community.

The winding down of American presence is expected to free troops for deployment in Afghanistan.

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