US Forces Withdraw from Key Syrian Base, Handing Over Control to Syrian Government
The U.S. military has completed its withdrawal from the strategic Al-Tanf garrison in southeastern Syria, handing over control to Syrian forces in a move that signals improved relations with the new government. The Al-Tanf base, located at the strategic junction of Syria, Jordan, and Iraq, has been a significant hub for U.S. anti-terrorism operations since 2016.
Background and Context
The Al-Tanf garrison was established in 2016 during the Syrian civil war as a crucial hub for operations by the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS). The base was also used to train opposition forces and served as a key outpost against IS militants who controlled the nearby border crossing before their arrival.
However, the U.S. Department of War began consolidating its locations in Syria in April 2025, leading to the withdrawal from Al-Tanf. This move is seen as part of a broader shift in U.S. posture in the region under Operation Inherent Resolve, a mission launched in 2014 to combat ISIS.
Key Developments
According to reports, the U.S. troops have relocated to Jordan and are expected to continue coordinating with the base in Al-Tanf from there. The withdrawal process was organized over the past 15 days, with U.S. forces moving out equipment and gradually ceding control of the facility to Syrian troops.
Syria's Defense Ministry confirmed the handover of the base was coordinated with U.S. military officials and announced Syrian forces are now securing the base and its perimeters
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As part of the withdrawal, the U.S. also transferred thousands of IS-linked detainees to Iraq as part of a deal reached with the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces.
Implications and Reactions
The handover of Al-Tanf garrison is seen by many as an indicator of strengthening ties between the U.S. and Syria that could enable an even larger American drawdown. However, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) insists that the U.S. military remains ready to respond to threats by IS and will maintain a limited presence in the country to support partner forces and prevent the terrorist group from resurging.
This withdrawal comes amid reports of multiple assassination attempts on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, indicating the persisting state of instability in the region.
Current Status
As of now, the U.S. has confirmed the complete withdrawal from Al-Tanf. Despite the handover, American forces remain primarily based at the Qasrak base in Hasakeh. Meanwhile, Syrian government forces have taken over the Al-Tanf base and have begun deploying along the country's borders with Iraq and Jordan, marking a significant shift in the control of strategic locations in the region.