BAGHDAD (AP) — The Biden administration is set to resume strategic talks with Iraqi officials next month on the withdrawal of remaining US combat forces in the country and other matters related to the bilateral relationship. The talks, which began in June under the Trump administration, would be the first under Biden, who assumed office in January. So far, two sessions of strategic talks have been held — in June and August. The US blames Iran-backed Shiite Iraqi militias for numerous attacks targeting US personnel and interests in Iraq. According to the Pentagon, the number of US troops in Iraq has dropped to about 2,500 over the past months.

Source: Egypt Independent March 23, 2021 21:11 UTC