By Micah Jonah, February 24, 2026
The United States has started withdrawing from its major military base in northeastern Syria, redeploying forces to northern Iraq. The phased pullout, expected to take several weeks, began at the Qasrak base in Hasakah province, the largest US facility in Syria, with armoured vehicles, heavy machinery, and personnel being transported toward the semi-autonomous Kurdish region of Iraq.
Local sources report that sensitive high-tech equipment will take additional time to transfer. The withdrawal follows reductions in the US military presence from 1,500 personnel in July 2025 to around 900 currently. Remaining forces will continue operating from Rmelan near the Iraqi border.
This drawdown coincides with Syrian government forces regaining control over key locations, including the al-Shaddadi base and al-Omar oilfield, formerly held by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF has agreed to integrate with the Syrian army after losing territory in clashes with government forces.
Security concerns remain high. Syrian authorities reported that ISIL carried out a deadly attack in Raqa, killing four Syrian security personnel. ISIL has also called on its fighters to continue operations against Syrian authorities.
Experts suggest the US pullback may also be influenced by rising tensions with Iran, leaving regional bases vulnerable to attacks.
The phased withdrawal reflects a broader reduction of US military engagement in Syria while maintaining limited strategic presence.
