U.S. Plans Withdrawal of Troops from Syria Amid Rising Tensions

The U.S. Defense Department is drafting withdrawal plans for all troops from Syria, prompted by President Trump’s recent comments. While discussions continue, military officials are concerned about the implications for supporting local forces and prisons housing ISIS fighters. Moreover, the rise of rebel groups adds further complexity to the conflict.

The U.S. Defense Department is formulating plans for a complete withdrawal of American troops from Syria, as indicated by two defense officials. Following President Trump’s recent remarks advocating for troop withdrawal, Pentagon officials are evaluating options for a pullout within a 30 to 90-day timeline. Adamantly, Trump stated during a media event, “We’re not involved in Syria. Syria is its own mess.”

Trump’s newly appointed national security adviser, Mike Waltz, visited the U.S. Central Command on Friday to engage with military leaders regarding the Middle East. Although the potential troop reduction was not discussed, the administration remains focused on receiving briefings from regional leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Jordan’s King Abdullah.

Previously, Trump ordered a withdrawal of troops in late 2019, leading to Defense Secretary James Mattis’s resignation after he opposed the decision. Although most forces were eventually withdrawn, the U.S. has maintained a military presence in Syria, with approximately 2,000 troops reported to be there currently, significantly higher than previously acknowledged.

The Pentagon’s mission in Syria primarily aims to combat the Islamic State and support local allies, specifically the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led coalition. Recent operations included targeting al-Qaeda affiliates in northwest Syria, showcasing ongoing military engagements despite reported withdrawal plans.

Defense officials caution that a troop withdrawal could jeopardize the SDF and the security of numerous prisons holding ISIS fighters. These facilities rely on U.S. support for their operations, and without it, the SDF may prioritize offensive operations, potentially releasing thousands of ISIS prisoners.

The rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s unexpected rise has complicated the situation. Following their overthrow of the Assad regime in December, HTS representatives have engaged in diplomatic meetings with the Biden administration, marking a significant policy shift regarding relations with Syria.

The U.S. military intervention in Syria began as part of the broader fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). The situation has evolved, leading to a complex landscape involving various local and international actors, including Kurdish forces and rebel groups. Recent developments, including troop withdrawal discussions and strategic military actions, underscore the instability and multifaceted nature of the conflict in Syria, as well as the international implications of U.S. military presence in the region.

In summary, the Defense Department is considering plans to withdraw U.S. troops from Syria in response to President Trump’s comments. This potential withdrawal raises concerns about the security of the Syrian Democratic Forces and the detention of ISIS fighters. The complexity of the Syrian conflict, marked by various rebel groups and regional dynamics, further complicates any decisions about U.S. military strategy in the area.

Original Source: www.nbcnews.com