US Seeks New Deal With Iraq After Baghdad Says Troops Not Needed.

The US is seeking a new deal with Iraq to maintain a military presence in the country, despite Baghdad stating that American troops are no longer necessary after defeating ISIS. The US is in discussions with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's government for a broader bilateral relationship, which they hope to announce soon. The US believes that a continued presence is needed to counter the regional threat from Iran and to continue fighting ISIS. However, the presence of foreign troops has become unpopular in Iraq, and Al-Sudani has expressed his desire to announce a timetable for their withdrawal. The US is concerned that a complete exit would allow Iran to increase its influence and for ISIS to regroup. Iraq seeks balanced ties with Iran and is confident that cooperation with the US will continue regardless of the outcome of the November election. [Extracted from the article]