US Cuts Syria Troops After Assad Ousted

The United States is reducing its troop presence in Syria from about 2,000 to fewer than 1,000 and closing three of its eight bases, following a temporary surge in forces after October 2023 due to regional instability and attacks on U.S. personnel. This drawdown is described by the Pentagon as deliberate and conditions-based, reflecting progress against ISIS, though U.S. forces will continue supporting Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces to prevent a resurgence. The reduction follows the ousting of President Bashar Assad in December 2024 and the installation of a new Islamist-led government. Meanwhile, Moscow is negotiating to retain a limited military presence in Syria, and Ukraine is engaging the new government. President Trump remains skeptical of maintaining any U.S. presence, while analysts warn that at least a minimal force is necessary to counter ongoing terrorist threats. Israel and other regional actors fear the U.S. reduction could embolden Iranian-backed militias and Turkey, altering the balance of power and security in northeastern Syria.