What happened after President George W. Bush declared the end to the military phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom?

After President George W. Bush announced the end of the military phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the conflict did not conclude entirely but evolved into a more protracted situation. The declaration signaled a shift from major combat operations to a prolonged engagement, highlighting the complexities of stabilizing Iraq and addressing the insurgency that continued to thrive.

As a result, U.S. forces remained in Iraq for an extended period to assist with security, governance, and rebuilding efforts, which were crucial in combating ongoing violence and sectarian conflict in the region. This led to the understanding that the war on terror was not solely tied to the military operations in Iraq but was a broader ongoing struggle that included various conflicts around the world. Therefore, the framing of the war on terror as an ongoing endeavor encapsulates the realities of the post-military phase and the necessity for continued involvement in Iraq and beyond to address emerging threats.