Syrian Army Takes Control of Al-Shaddadi Base as U.S. Scales Back Footprint in Syria

Peregraf — Syria’s Ministry of Defense said on Friday that Syrian Arab Army forces have taken over the Al-Shaddadi military base in the countryside of Al-Hasakah, following coordination with the American side, according to the state-run SANA.

The development comes amid a broader adjustment of the U.S. military posture in Syria. On February 12, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces had completed an orderly departure from the al-Tanf Garrison in southern Syria, describing the move as part of a deliberate, conditions-based transition under Combined Joint Task Force–Operation Inherent Resolve.

CENTCOM said CJTF-OIR, established in 2014, has advised, assisted, and enabled partner forces in the campaign against ISIS. The drawdown follows an April 2025 decision by the U.S. Department of War to consolidate military locations in Syria after ISIS lost its territorial control in 2019.

Despite the withdrawal from al-Tanf, CENTCOM emphasized that U.S. forces remain prepared to counter ongoing threats from the extremist group. “U.S. forces remain poised to respond to any ISIS threats that arise in the region as we support partner-led efforts to prevent the terrorist network’s resurgence,” said Brad Cooper, the CENTCOM commander. He added that sustaining pressure on ISIS is critical to protecting the U.S. homeland and reinforcing regional security. 

CENTCOM also reported that over the past two months, U.S. forces conducted strikes on more than 100 targets, employing over 350 precision-guided munitions, and captured or killed more than 50 ISIS militants as part of continued counterterrorism operations.

The handover of Al-Shaddadi and the transition at al-Tanf underscore a shift in the U.S. military footprint in Syria, while Washington maintains a stated focus on preventing ISIS from reconstituting its capabilities.