Pentagon announces plans to reduce troop presence in Syria

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Pentagon has confirmed plans to scale back its military presence in Syria over the coming months, following recent reports by international media outlets.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Barnell, in a statement reported by AFP, revealed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the consolidation of U.S. forces into select locations, though specific sites have not been disclosed. Barnell emphasized that this strategic, calculated move is designed to reduce the number of U.S. troops in Syria gradually over the next few months.

Earlier reports from Bloomberg indicated that the Pentagon intends to cut its forces in Syria to fewer than 1,000 soldiers, though no additional details were provided. Meanwhile, The New York Times reported that the U.S. military began withdrawing hundreds of troops from northeastern Syria on Friday and is currently in the process of shutting down three of its eight military bases in the region.

This development highlights ongoing adjustments in U.S. military strategy and its presence in Syria, reflecting broader regional and geopolitical considerations.