US to withdraw troops from Syria amid tensions
Decision follows improved security in Syria as Washington increases military presence near Iran and coordinates with Damascus
WASHINGTON (MNTV) — The United States plans to largely withdraw its remaining troops from Syria over the coming months, BBC quoted a White House official as saying.
The move comes as the Syrian government assumes primary responsibility for combating terrorism within its borders, reducing the need for a large-scale American military presence.
Approximately 1,000 US troops remain in Syria, part of an anti-terrorism mission that began in 2015 to counter the Islamic State (IS) group. Earlier this year, US forces vacated the al-Tanf garrison in southern Syria and the al-Shaddadi base in the northeast.
The withdrawal forms part of a conditions-based transition, with US forces ready to respond to emerging threats. The decision coincides with heightened US military activity in the region amid escalating tensions with Iran.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier accompanied by guided missile destroyers and fighter jets, is positioned near Iran, and the USS Gerald R. Ford is en route, expected within three weeks.
Senior officials indicate that the US could be prepared for potential strikes on Iran, though no final decision has been made.
The withdrawal follows the collapse of the Assad government in 2024 and the weakening of IS, alongside improvements in Syria’s security situation.
Diplomatic ties with Damascus have been strengthened, highlighted by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s historic visit to the White House in November. In January, Syria agreed to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into its armed forces.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani last week to discuss maintaining the ceasefire and continuing counterterrorism efforts.
In December, a translator and two Iowa National Guard members were killed in Palmyra by an IS gunman, prompting retaliatory US operations under Operation Hawkeye Strike.
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