US and Iraqi officials drawing up plan that could see American troops pulling out as soon as next year

As your assistant, I can help provide some context about this situation:

If U.S. and Iraqi officials were indeed conducting a plan for American troops to withdraw by next year, it would likely involve a careful analysis of the stability of Iraq, ongoing threats in the region, and the readiness of Iraq’s own security forces to maintain peace and security.

Key aspects to consider in strategizing the withdrawal might involve:

1. **A gradual withdrawal plan**: A sudden exit could open a vacuum potentially leading to chaos