BAGHDAD – No American military vehicles patrolled Baghdad’s streets for the first time in six years on Tuesday morning, as U.S. forces in Iraq finished withdrawing from towns and cities to bases in the countryside.
Iraqi army troops and police manned checkpoints in the Shiite area of Sadr City, searching cars for explosives and weapons. They can still call for American support if necessary, but Iraqis are hoping they can cope with the ongoing insurgency alone from now on.
As the midnight deadline for the handover of security in towns and cities drew nearer, Iraqis gathered in a park near the Baghdad Zoo for an outdoor concert to celebrate.
Pop singers entertained the crowds and there was a modest firework display. For many present it was the first outdoor celebration of its kind in recent memory.
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| VIDEO: U.S. troops leave Iraqi cities |
In the Shiite slums of Sadr City, many greeted the departure of American forces with optimism. But Fouad Mohsen, who is 40 years old and unemployed, was cautious.
“I’m not too happy because the security situation is not ideal,” said Mohsen. “I think the Iraqi forces are 70 percent capable of protecting us.”
Taleb, 27, and also unemployed, said he already sees a decline in the security situation compared with just two months ago.
“I don’t think it is the right time for U.S. forces to leave the cities,” said Taleb, who declined to give his last name. “We still don’t think the government is doing enough to help us. There is no work and no money.”
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