US forces are concluding their withdrawal from Iraq on Wednesday, a move hailed by Iran and its allies who wield considerable influence within the nation, where 4,500 American service members lost their lives over two decades of conflict. Despite the troop departure, the United States maintains significant control over Iraq’s oil revenue, a situation established following the 2003 invasion. This control grants Washington substantial leverage over Iraq’s political and economic decisions. The arrangement has far-reaching consequences, particularly impacting regional power dynamics with Iran. The article explains how this financial control operates, despite the changing military presence in Iraq. This continued influence over Iraq’s oil wealth allows the US to exert considerable power over Baghdad’s policies.