The U.S. military is expected to reduce its troop presence in Syria from 2,000 to approximately 1,000 as part of a consolidation effort aimed at preventing an Islamic State resurgence. However, the reduction faces skepticism due to ongoing negotiations with Iran and a recent military buildup in the Middle East. U.S. officials are maintaining a cautious position towards the new Syrian government and the complexities of regional politics.
The U.S. military is in the process of potentially halving its troop presence in Syria, currently maintaining about 2,000 personnel in various bases, predominantly in the northeast. This initiative aims to consolidate forces working alongside local groups to prevent the resurgence of the Islamic State, which had previously controlled significant territories in Iraq and Syria before being pushed back.
According to an anonymous U.S. official, troop numbers could decrease to approximately 1,000, though another official expressed skepticism about such a significant reduction amidst ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiations and military buildup in the region.
Recently, the U.S. has enhanced its military presence in the Middle East by deploying aircraft such as B-2 bombers, warships, and air defense systems. President Trump voiced concerns that Iran is stalling nuclear deal negotiations, insisting the nation must abandon its ambitions for nuclear weapons to avert military action.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is executing a review of military deployments globally, which coincides with shifts in Syria’s political landscape following the ousting of Bashar Assad. In a recent development, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, supported by the U.S., formalized an agreement with the central government in Damascus on unifying governance and security operations.
While the U.S. provided Syria with a list of conditions for sanction relief, engagement with the new Syrian leadership, with its historical ties to Al-Qaeda, has been minimal, reflecting a cautious approach from some White House officials who advocate for a tougher stance.
The U.S. military is considering a significant reduction in troops stationed in Syria, possibly cutting the number by half. This adjustment is part of a larger strategic review coinciding with ongoing tensions involving Iran and the evolving political landscape in Syria. The U.S. maintains a cautious stance towards the new Syrian regime amid concerns over its links to extremist groups. Overall, these developments signal a potential shift in U.S. military strategy in the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
