Some of the 1,800 Iowa Army National Guard soldiers now in the Middle East are returning home earlier than planned.

About 250 soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, are coming back because they are no longer needed overseas, according to an announcement from the National Guard.

This is the beginning of a phased return home of the soldiers, the National Guard reported.

The troops left Iowa in May 2025 and were scheduled to return home this coming June.

Soldiers of the Fort Dodge-based unit — Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 194th Field Artillery — are among the troops that deployed.

It was not immediately clear if they are part of the first group that is returning.

“Due to progress achieved toward U.S. Central Command objectives, some soldiers and units have completed their assigned missions and are beginning a phased redeployment home in accordance with higher headquarters guidance,” Jackie Schmillen, director of public affairs for the Iowa National Guard, said in a statement announcing the move.

“Not all soldiers return at the same time,” she added.

“Some are returning earlier because their specific mission requirements have concluded, while others remain deployed to continue essential responsibilities, including partner support and base security.”