Chicago – February 23, 2026
The United States has begun withdrawing forces from its largest base in northeastern Syria, including al-Shaddadi and Qasrak in Hasakah province, as convoys move equipment to Iraq. This follows earlier exits from al-Tanf and signals a potential full pullout within weeks or a month, according to Syrian officials, Kurdish sources, and diplomats.
The move aligns with President Donald Trump’s long-standing push to end the U.S. presence, initiated against ISIS in 2015 but now deemed unnecessary after Syria’s government reasserted control over Kurdish-held areas post-Assad. Analysts link the timing to heightened U.S.-Iran confrontations, leaving bases vulnerable to attacks from Tehran-backed militias.
A White House official described it as a conditions-based transition, with Syrian forces assuming anti-terrorism roles amid regional redeployments. ISIL attacks persist, but Damascus’ advances reduce the need for U.S. troops. The shift raises questions on Middle East stability as tensions mount.
