US Forces Exit Iraq After 23-Year Presence; Oman Advances in Gulf Cup via Lottery

American forces have officially withdrawn from Iraq, concluding a military presence that began with the 2003 invasion. The departure marks the end of a complex and lengthy engagement, during which, according to reporting, a fundamental understanding of the country by the invading forces remained elusive.

In a separate development, the Oman national football team has advanced to the semi-finals of the Gulf Cup under highly unusual circumstances. Their progression was decided by a drawing of lots, a rare method that saw them placed ahead of Iraq in the tournament standings.