The US has handed over its military bases in Syria and is winding down its long-standing presence
The United States has completed the handover of all major military bases in Syria to the government in Damascus. This was announced by the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and US Central Command.
This marks the end of more than a decade of US military presence, which began in 2015 as part of operations against the Islamic State group. US forces operated in cooperation with the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces, establishing bases in the north-east of the country and carrying out airstrikes on militant positions.
A statement from the Syrian side noted that the handover of facilities demonstrates the country’s readiness to take sole responsibility for combating terrorism and responding to regional threats.
A US military representative stated that the US is moving to a new phase of cooperation without a permanent presence. This involves training, advising, intelligence sharing and possible logistical support for Syrian security forces, particularly in the fight against the ‘Islamic State’.
US Central Command emphasised that American forces continue to support partner counter-terrorism operations, which are intended to ensure the group’s lasting defeat and strengthen regional security.
The withdrawal of troops has been a gradual process. About a year ago, the US closed some of its bases in north-eastern Syria. The decision came against the backdrop of a policy review following the change of government in the country and the establishment of diplomatic relations with the new leadership headed by Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Following the removal of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Washington began engaging with the new government, and in November of that year, President Donald Trump received Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House. At the same time, Syria joined the US-led coalition to fight the ‘Islamic State’.
However, the group remains a threat, particularly in the eastern regions and desert areas of Syria. In February, it called on its supporters to continue their attacks, and in December, two American soldiers and an interpreter were killed during an attack near Palmyra.
Despite the withdrawal of troops, the US continues to cooperate with Syrian security agencies and plans to continue supporting local forces involved in the fight against the Islamic State.
