U.S. Forces in Iraq

Publication Date: July 2008

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Military and defense

Type:

Coverage: Iraq

Abstract:

Varying media estimates of military forces in Iraq have raised concerns about the actual number of troops deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). This report provides solely Department of Defense (DOD) statistical information on U.S. forces serving in Iraq. As of November 1, 2006, according to DOD, the United States had 147,796 troops stationed in Iraq -- 124,266 active component and 23,530 National Guard or Reserves. For security reasons, DOD does not routinely report the composition, size, or specific destination of military forces deployed to the Persian Gulf. This report will be updated upon receipt of new DOD data. For additional information on U.S. forces, see CRS Report RL31701, Iraq: U.S. Military Operations, by Steve Bowman.