Syrian army takes over al-Shaddadi base after US withdrawal | Military News
Syrian Army Assumes Control of Al-Shaddadi Military Base Following U.S. Withdrawal
AL-SHADDADI, Syria — The Syrian army has taken over the al-Shaddadi military base in the northeastern part of the country after the withdrawal of United States troops, marking a significant step in the ongoing ceasefire agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Syria’s Ministry of Defence announced on Sunday that “forces of the Syrian Arab Army have taken over the al-Shaddadi military base in the Hasakah countryside following coordination with the American side.” The U.S. had maintained a presence at al-Shaddadi since 2016 after it was seized from ISIL (ISIS) by Kurdish forces.
In addition to al-Shaddadi, the Syrian army also assumed control of the U.S. base at al-Tanf, located near the borders with Iraq and Jordan.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding the ceasefire agreement, stating that “implementation is headed in a positive direction.” He acknowledged concerns over certain recent developments but maintained that the overall trajectory remains favorable. Rubio emphasized the importance of continued engagement and noted the need for similar agreements with other communities in Syria, including Druze, Bedouin, and Alawite groups.
“The outcome, as challenging as it has been, is certainly better than a fragmented Syria plagued by widespread conflict and mass migration,” he added.
Residents near al-Shaddadi reported hearing explosions and observing fires at the base, as U.S. forces began destroying remaining materials in preparation for their exit. This move is seen as part of a broader shift in U.S. strategy towards direct cooperation with the Syrian government.
The U.S. has been steadily reducing its military presence in Syria, decreasing its troop levels from approximately 1,500 personnel in July to around 900. The U.S. is consolidating its operations to Tower 22 in Jordan but continues to conduct air strikes against ISIL targets in Syria. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) recently announced it carried out ten air strikes against thirty targets between February 3 and February 12, resulting in more than fifty individuals killed or captured during this period.
CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper stated that U.S. forces remain prepared to respond to any emerging threats from ISIS.
