In my opinion, the presence of US forces in a pincer-like posture around Iran has been worth it. This includes Afghanistan.
We eliminated Saddam Hussein, stopping a major financier of terrorism, we helped/helping reconstitute its armed forces as a defense against Iran, and have demonstrated resolve through the force of arms.
Nobody truly wins a war, due to the cost of lives and property. However, we changed the global battlefield.
Not only have we militarily stressed Iran, we have also been conducting operations against Pakistan. Though a titular ally, their government and ISI are well aware of our ability to strike with impunity.
In my opinion, our military presence gives pause to those in the region who would do us, or Israel harm. Our ability to project power and control territory are essential deterrents.
For the record, I lost 3 friends in Iraq, and another lost half an arm.
“We eliminated Saddam Hussein, stopping a major financier of terrorism”, what about Saudi Arabia?...How many of the 9/11/2001 TERRORISTS were Iraqi? Answer Zero!