Iraqis celebrated yesterday as the United States military withdrew their forces from cities across Iraq, although the day was marred by a car bomb that killed 33 people in Kirkuk.

In this video, NewsHour correspondent Judy Woodruff reports on the transition of power, which Iraqis celebrated in the streets. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki declared it National Sovereignty Day.

Although the U.S. will pull its troops out of the major cities, 130,000 U.S. soldiers will remain in Iraq until they are due to leave by the end of 2011. These soldiers will remain to help the Iraqi government maintain control if needed and to train Iraqi security forces.

Despite the transition, there have been a string of bombings that have killed 250 people in the last week nationwide. Four U.S. soldiers died yesterday as well, bringing the total U.S. dead to 4,320 in Iraq since the 2003 invasion.

"We congratulate the Iraqi people about the U.S. pullback from urban cities. And we hope for the full U.S. withdrawal from Iraq, God willing, wishing for safety and security for the Iraqi people." - Ahmed Ali, Baghdad resident

"Now, make no mistake: There will be difficult days ahead. We know that the violence in Iraq will continue. We see that already in the senseless bombing in Kirkuk earlier today." - President Barack Obama

"A hundred and thirty thousand American troops will stay in Iraq for now. Combat units will return to the cities only if the Iraqi government seeks their help. Otherwise, they'll continue operations in rural towns and along the border and help with training and intelligence. All U.S. forces are due to leave Iraq by the end of 2011." - Judy Woodruff

1. Where is Iraq?

2. Why are United States military forces in Iraq?

1. Do you think it is a good idea for U.S. troops to pull out of the cities? Why or why not?

2. Do you think violence will go up when there are less U.S. troops in Iraq?

3. Why were Iraqis celebrating? Why do people resent foreign soldiers on their land?

4. Do you think U.S. soldiers will ever leave Iraq if it there is more violence? How long should U.S. soldiers stay in Iraq?