Syria says its forces have taken over al-Tanf base after a handover from the US
DAMASCUS, Syria — Reports from DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) state that Syrian government forces have successfully gained control of a crucial base in the eastern part of the country. This base, formerly operated by U.S. troops as part of the fight against the Islamic State group, has now been handed over to Syrian forces in a coordinated effort between the two military entities.
The al-Tanf base, strategically positioned near the borders with Jordan and Iraq, is now being secured by Syrian forces following the handover. This development marks a significant shift in the region’s military landscape, with Syrian troops taking charge of the base and its surroundings.
The recent deployment of Syrian troops in the area surrounding the al-Tanf garrison comes in the aftermath of a recent agreement between the Syrian government and the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This agreement saw the integration of SDF fighters into the Syrian military structure, further consolidating the government’s control over the region.
The al-Tanf base has been a key battleground in the fight against the Islamic State group, which was defeated in Iraq in 2017 and in Syria two years later. With the transfer of control to Syrian forces, a new chapter in the region’s security dynamics is unfolding.
In recent weeks, the U.S. military has initiated the transfer of thousands of IS prisoners from SDF-run prisons in northeastern Syria to Iraq for prosecution. This move signals a shift in focus for U.S. forces in the region, as they continue to adapt to evolving security challenges.
The presence of U.S. troops in Syria has fluctuated over the years, with troop levels reaching over 2,000 following regional tensions in 2023 but subsequently reducing to around 900. These changes reflect the dynamic nature of the conflict landscape in the region.
This latest development underscores the complex interplay of regional actors and interests in Syria and highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilize the country after years of conflict.
For more on this story, stay tuned for updates from Associated Press journalist Bassem Mroue in Beirut.
