Bassam Ishak reveals details of U.S. withdrawal strategy from Syria 

WASHINGTON — The planned withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria is a tactical adjustment rather than a full disengagement, according to Bassam Ishak, co-chair of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) representation in Washington. Ishak stated that despite troop reductions, the United States will retain 400 personnel in the region and establish two new military bases in North and East Syria —a move signaling continued geopolitical interest.  

In an interview with Rudaw, Ishak explained that the decision reflects the Trump administration’s broader approach to reducing overseas military commitments while maintaining strategic influence in key areas. He clarified that although U.S. forces will be scaled back, their presence will remain vital to regional stability and counterterrorism operations. One of the new bases, Ishak noted, will be positioned near the Tishrin Dam, while the second will be established along the Syrian-Iraqi border in Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor) province, reinforcing U.S. footholds in areas critical for security and energy infrastructure.  

The decision to maintain a limited military presence comes amid renewed tensions over Syria’s future governance. Washington’s engagement has long been shaped by its dual commitments to fighting ISIS and supporting Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), whose influence in North and East Syria remains a central factor in determining stability. Ishak stressed that U.S. military strategy is not solely linked to SDF negotiations but extends to broader concerns about regional security, Iranian influence, and long-term counterinsurgency efforts.  

Despite earlier claims that U.S. presence in Syria was temporary, Ishak emphasized that Washington remains committed to ensuring a negotiated settlement between the SDF, the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES), and the Syrian Transitional Government (STG). He noted that any withdrawal without a political framework could leave a vacuum, potentially exacerbating instability and undermining territorial security.   

The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from Syrian factions. While SDF leadership sees the continued U.S. presence as a necessary safeguard against renewed threats, Daramsuq (Damascus) has criticized the move as a violation of sovereignty and has repeatedly called for full withdrawal of foreign troops from Syrian soil. Analysts warn that reducing troop numbers while expanding bases could send conflicting signals, particularly as negotiations over territorial control and post-conflict reconstruction unfold. 

A senior SDF official, speaking anonymously, stated: “This confirms that the U.S. is not abandoning North and East Syria. While troop numbers may decrease, logistical and operational commitments remain strong.” Meanwhile, sources within Daramsuq (Damascus) view the move as an effort to consolidate Western influence in resource-rich areas, further complicating peace efforts.   

The shift in U.S. military policy reflects broader uncertainties about Syria’s post-war trajectory, highlighting the competing interests of regional actors, militias, and international powers. As troop reductions progress, observers stress that Washington’s next steps—whether diplomatic, military, or economic—will play a decisive role in shaping Syria’s stability.   

Ishak concluded by warning that any withdrawal without a firm political settlement could weaken local governance, placing communities at renewed risk of insurgent attacks, territorial disputes, and external interference. Whether the United States’ recalibrated presence will serve as a stabilizing force or deepen geopolitical complexities remains a question that will shape Syria’s future.   

The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from Syrian factions. While SDF leadership sees the continued U.S. presence as a necessary safeguard against renewed threats, Daramsuq (Damascus) has criticized the move as a violation of sovereignty and has repeatedly called for full withdrawal of foreign troops from Syrian soil. Analysts warn that reducing troop numbers while expanding bases could send conflicting signals, particularly as negotiations over territorial control and post-conflict reconstruction unfold.