In a recent development, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has privately conveyed his willingness to negotiate with American officials regarding the sustained presence of U.S. forces in Iraq. This revelation comes after al-Sudani's public announcement about initiating the process of removing American troops from the country. According to a Jan. 6 State Department cable obtained by POLITICO, senior advisers close to al-Sudani have emphasized that his previous declaration was mainly aimed at appeasing domestic political audiences, and that he remains committed to engaging in discussions concerning the future of the U.S.-led international military coalition in Iraq.

The decision of Iraq to consider retaining U.S. military troops is of significant importance to the Biden administration. The United States views its presence in Iraq as vital not only in preventing the resurgence of ISIS but also in countering Iranian influence in the region. Al-Sudani's potential move to expel American forces from the country could undermine the administration's efforts to prevent the escalation of conflicts, particularly the war in Gaza.

While U.S. officials have been informed about Iraq's willingness to negotiate the continued presence of American troops, there remains a possibility that political dynamics within the Iraqi parliament could force al-Sudani to take steps towards removing U.S. forces from the country. At present, the National Security Council has opted not to comment on the cable, and the State Department has not responded to requests for comment.

The recent trigger for public discontent in Iraq stems from a U.S. drone strike that occurred last week, resulting in the death of a senior Iran-backed militia member in Baghdad. In response to this incident, al-Sudani's office announced the establishment of a bilateral committee to address the presence of the U.S.-led international military coalition, with a specific focus on preventing the resurgence of ISIS.

It is noteworthy that the Pentagon has indicated that it has no intentions to withdraw forces from Iraq, further highlighting the complexity of the situation. Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon spokesperson, stated on Monday that the U.S. troops are present in Iraq at the invitation of the Iraqi government and that no notifications for withdrawal have been received by the Department of Defense.

This is not the first instance wherein the Iraqi government has raised the prospect of removing American troops. In January 2020, in response to the killing of Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani, the Iraqi parliament voted on a resolution to end the U.S. military presence in the country. However, this resolution was never implemented.

The Pentagon has consistently maintained that the presence of U.S. troops in Iraq primarily aims to prevent the resurgence of ISIS and foster a close relationship with Iraqi security forces. The shift towards a purely advisory role was announced at the end of 2021, marking the official conclusion of the U.S. military's combat mission in Iraq. This decision, though symbolic, did not entail a complete withdrawal of American forces. Currently, there are approximately 2,500 troops in Iraq and an additional 900 in Syria, all focused on combating ISIS.

The U.S.-Iraq relationship is facing mounting pressure since the Israeli invasion of Gaza in October. Iran-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria have launched numerous drones and rockets, targeting U.S. troops over 120 times. During a Christmas Day drone attack, three service-members were wounded, one critically. Kataib Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militia group, claimed responsibility for the assault.

As discussions continue between Iraqi and American officials, the outcome will significantly impact the strategic dynamics in the region. The negotiations will determine the extent of U.S. military presence in Iraq and the administration's ability to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape while ensuring the stability and security of the nation.

(Note: The information provided is based solely on the context given and does not include any additional external factors or recent developments.)