American troops have withdrawn from Iraqi cities, and US President Barack Obama has warned that Iraq faces difficult days ahead. While the US president congratulated Iraq on its important step that is being celebrated as a national holiday of sovereignty and unity, he reminds the country that violence will continue in Iraq as it takes over the reins of its own destiny.

Violence still rages in Iraq. ‘The deadliest attack this year occurred near Kirkuk on June 20 when 72 people were killed.’

Despite the uncertainty about the ability of its forces to ensure national security, Iraq took control Tuesday of its cities under an agreement concluded in 2008 under the Bush presidency which stipulates that U.S. troops would withdraw from these areas by June 30. All US troops will vacate Iraq by the end of 2011.

A few US soldiers remain in the cities to fulfill the duties of training and counseling. Most American soldiers will now be stationed outside the cities until the end of 2011. Approximately 133,000 U.S. troops are still stationed in Iraq.

Obama has instructed his vice president Joe Biden to oversee the effort of political reconciliation in Iraq, and for the people to overcome their political differences.

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Via France 24