Officially ending the US combat operation in Iraq, the US Vice President Joe Biden has said that Operation Iraqi Freedom is over but American engagement with Iraq will continue with the new mission Operation New Dawn, that began today. Addressing US troops at Camp Victory, outside of Baghdad, US vice President stressed that Iraqis have rejected violence and called upon Iraqi leaders to form a new government. Mr. Biden said, he truly believes that the darkest days are now behind and Iraqis' have deep desire to control their own lives and maintain their own security. US defence Secretary Robert Gates and Army chief General Ray Odierno also addressed the troops on the occasion. Earlier, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki during his meeting with US Vice President praised the U.S. administration commitment to the security agreement and the withdrawal of combat troops from Iraq. Maliki also reasserted on the Iraqi forces’ capabilities to perform their duties. Meanwhile in a speech delivered in Oval Office address, President Obama has hailed the end of US combat operations in Iraq, saying the US has paid a huge price to put Iraq's future in its peoples' hands. he said US would continue to support Iraq's government and people.