The United States has begun withdrawing troops from Syria under Trump’s direction, raising fears of a power vacuum that could reignite ISIS and destabilize fragile alliances.
At a Glance
- U.S. forces are reducing from 2,000 to 1,000 troops in Syria over a 90-day plan
- Three of eight military bases are closing, including Conoco and al-Omar oil sites
- SDF forces are assuming control as the U.S. pivots toward a supporting role
- Trump aims to shift resources to Asia and the southern U.S. border
- Analysts warn of risks to ISIS containment and local detention facilities
Exit in Motion
The Pentagon has begun executing a phased withdrawal from Syria, closing major bases and reducing troop numbers in line with a new strategy from President Trump. The drawdown will reduce U.S. forces from 2,000 to approximately 1,000 and shutter three key operating sites, including the Conoco gas field, al-Omar oil field, and Green Village.
Military planners have laid out 30-, 60-, and 90-day exit scenarios. Officials say the timeline will be reviewed continuously, with potential for further cuts if regional conditions remain stable. Trump has long sought to end the U.S. presence in what he called “forever wars,” especially as domestic and Pacific defense priorities intensify.
Watch a report: U.S. Military Pulls Back from Syria.
Local Forces in the Hot Seat
Responsibility now falls to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to maintain control of northeastern Syria. The SDF has vowed to defend critical detention sites holding more than 9,000 ISIS fighters and secure sprawling refugee camps housing over 50,000 civilians. Yet analysts warn that without direct U.S. military support, those locations remain vulnerable to coordinated ISIS jailbreaks or external attacks.
“This is one of the most significant realignments since the fight against ISIS began,” noted the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which confirmed the U.S. withdrawal from two Deir ez-Zor bases in May. Intelligence groups like the Institute for the Study of War have observed increased ISIS activity across the Euphrates, raising fears the group may exploit thinning U.S. coverage.
Strategic Realignment or Security Gamble?
Administration officials argue the drawdown reflects improved conditions, including the collapse of the Assad regime in late 2024 and declining Iranian influence. Trump is expected to redirect resources to bolster military assets in the Indo-Pacific and U.S. southern border deployments, marking a major shift in operational focus.
Still, the risk remains that a premature withdrawal could undo hard-fought gains. Critics worry the decision leaves too much to chance, especially as regional factions jockey for power and ISIS continues to adapt. For now, the U.S. commitment is being redefined—not erased—but what fills the vacuum may shape Syria’s future more than any troop tally.
