US pulls forces from Syria as new government exerts control

The Trump administration is withdrawing forces from Syria as part of a strategic shift now that the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa is taking control of the fight against terror groups, according to a senior US official. A significant US troop presence is no longer required in Syria, according to the official who detailed the decision on condition of anonymity, but the Trump administration is ready to respond to Islamic State threats in the region. Some US personnel are leaving as part... AdvertisementMiddle EastWorldMiddle EastUS pulls forces from Syria as new government exerts controlThe Syrian army has already taken control of Al-Tanf military base, ending an American military presence that lasted for a decadeReading Time:1 minuteWhy you can trust SCMPBloombergPublished: 7:04am, 19 Feb 2026The Trump administration is withdrawing forces from Syria as part of a strategic shift now that the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa is taking control of the fight against terror groups, according to a senior US official.A significant US troop presence is no longer required in Syria, according to the official who detailed the decision on condition of anonymity, but the Trump administration is ready to respond to Islamic State threats in the region.Some US personnel are leaving as part of a transition process.AdvertisementThe Wall Street Journal reported earlier Wednesday that the US was in the process of withdrawing all of the estimated 1,000 troops it maintains in Syria.The Journal cited three American officials it did not identify. 08:01Who are the groups vying for control in post-Assad Syria?Who are the groups vying for control in post-Assad Syria?Spokespeople for the Pentagon and US Central Command declined to comment.AdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.00x