The US military announced on Thursday (February 12th) that it has completed the withdrawal from a strategic base in Syria and transferred the base to the Syrian army. This is the latest sign of further strengthening of US-Syria relations, which may pave the way for a larger-scale withdrawal of US troops.
According to Reuters, the Al-Tanf base was established during the Syrian civil war in 2014, initially serving as a hub for joint military operations led by the US against ISIS militants. Before being defeated by US forces in 2019, ISIS had controlled large territories in Iraq and Syria.
Due to its location along a strategic road connecting Syria and Iran, the base later became a key point in countering Iran’s influence. Although the US has long believed that maintaining the base is worthwhile, the fundamental change in US-Syria relations occurred after the long-time Syrian dictator Assad was overthrown in December 2024, prompting the Trump administration to reassess the situation.
In November last year, the new Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited the White House and met with US President Trump, leading Syria to join the coalition against the remnants of ISIS.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense stated on Thursday that the Syrian government army has taken control of the Al-Tanf area following coordination with Syrian and US authorities.
The US Central Command confirmed the transfer of the Al-Tanf base in a statement and noted that the Pentagon announced a plan last year to consolidate its military bases in Syria.
“The US military is ready to respond to any ISIS threats that may arise in the region, and we will support partner-led efforts to prevent the resurgence of the ISIS terrorist network,” said Brad Cooper, Commander of the US Central Command.
Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing two sources, that the US troops stationed at Al-Tanf are being relocated to Jordan.
A source mentioned that the withdrawal from Al-Tanf could be a milestone paving the way for a larger-scale withdrawal. The US is also gradually ending one of its most important ground operations in Syria: assisting in securing prisons where US-backed forces guard ISIS prisoners.