US to withdraw troops from Syria as tensions mount with Iran

The US is preparing to largely withdraw its remaining 1,000 troops from Syria over the next few months. A White House official stated the Syrian government will lead in combatting terrorism, making a large US military presence unnecessary. This decision follows improved security in Syria, the collapse of the Assad government in 2024, and strengthened US-Syrian diplomatic ties, including a White House meeting between Presidents Trump and al-Sharaa in November. The withdrawal also coincides with increased US military presence in the Middle East and rising tensions with Iran. Despite the troop withdrawal from Syria, the US maintains it is ready to respond to any regional threats.

According to a Wall Street Journal report on February 18, 2026, the United States is preparing to withdraw its nearly 1,000 troops from Syria within the next two months. The withdrawal follows the recent departure from the al-Tanf base, a former hub for operations against ISIL. US Central Command described the al-Tanf departure as a "conditions-based transition." The decision to withdraw all troops has been under consideration by the Trump administration since at least January. US officials stated that the withdrawal is unrelated to the buildup of US naval and air forces elsewhere in the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran.

The US is withdrawing troops from Syria as the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa assumes greater control in combating terror groups. According to a US official, a significant troop presence is no longer necessary, although the US remains prepared to address Islamic State threats in the region. The withdrawal is described as a transition process, with some personnel already departing. The Wall Street Journal reported the US is withdrawing all of its estimated 1,000 troops. The Pentagon and US Central Command have declined to comment on the matter.