Some Iraqis Fret as U.S. Combat Troops Leave

Aug. 20, 2010 — -- After a thorough weapons search and a huge meal at one of Baghdad's fanciest restaurants, Iraqi civilians told ABC News that they had watched the pictures of U.S. combat brigades pulling out of their country. But instead of the departures making Iraqis swell with pride, they said the process has made them nervous.

"It's a bad decision," said one man named Abas, when asked what he thought about American troops pulling out.

"It makes me scared actually," responded another named Sawat.

Earlier this week, members of the 4th Stryker Brigade left Iraq as part of President Obama's plan to remove combat troops in the embattled Middle Eastern nation by the end of next year. On Thursday, some members of the brigade arrived at Fort Lewis, Wash., for a much-awaited homecoming.

Today on the streets of Baghdad, many citizens echoed that same sentiment as those at the restaurant.

"We don't know what's going to happen when they leave," said a female bystander.

After more than seven and a half years at war, it seems as though civilians have changed their tune. Even before the war, during the days of Saddam Hussein, Iraqis usually criticized Americans.

During the early days of the insurgency, one mother told ABC News that she was angry about the lack of security.

"So many Americans will be killed," the woman said. "I can assure you because I know my people."