The Pentagon plans a significant shift in its military strategy in Syria amid reported success against the Islamic State militant group.
According to The Daily Caller, the Department of Defense announced Friday it will reduce American troop numbers in Syria to fewer than 1,000 personnel in the coming months as part of a broader consolidation effort.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell revealed the drawdown follows directives from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to consolidate U.S. forces under the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve. The move aligns with President Donald Trump's peace-through-strength agenda and reflects significant progress in degrading ISIS's operational capabilities both regionally and globally.
The Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS has achieved substantial gains since its formation, including the territorial defeat of ISIS in 2019. U.S. Central Command has maintained pressure through dozens of airstrikes over the past year to prevent the terrorist group from regaining strength. The coalition's effectiveness was demonstrated recently with a precision strike that killed ISIS second-in-command Abu Khadijah in Iraq on March 13.
Trump's administration notably orchestrated the operation that led to the death of ISIS founder Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in northern Syria in October 2019. The mission represented a significant blow to the terrorist organization's leadership structure. At the time, Trump emphasized that targeting Baghdadi was his administration's highest national security priority.
The coalition continues to expand its reach, with Uzbekistan becoming its newest member. This growth reflects the ongoing commitment to combating ISIS's influence across multiple regions.
Despite these successes, ISIS remains a considerable threat according to coalition officials. D-ISIS Deputy Special Envoy Ian McCary emphasized in March 2024 that the group poses a "real" and "continuing" danger, even after losing its self-proclaimed caliphate five years ago.
The Pentagon maintains that addressing the situation of ISIS-linked individuals in detention facilities across northeast Syria is crucial for long-term security. Parnell has called on the international community to assist by repatriating their nationals from these facilities.
The Department of Defense emphasizes its commitment to maintaining regional stability. Military officials will continue monitoring the security situation and adjust force levels accordingly.
Parnell stressed that the threat of terrorism extends beyond the Middle East, requiring vigilance across all continents. The U.S. military's new posture reflects this global perspective while maintaining capabilities to respond to emerging threats.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Parnell stated:
This consolidation reflects the significant steps we have made toward degrading ISIS' appeal and operational capability regionally and globally. The threat of terrorism is not confined to the Middle East, and we will be vigilant across every continent to ensure that ISIS has nowhere to hide.
The Combined Joint Task Force will continue coordinating with coalition partners to maintain pressure on terrorist elements. CENTCOM remains prepared to conduct strikes against remnant ISIS forces when necessary.
The Department of Defense announced a reduction of U.S. troops in Syria to fewer than 1,000 personnel, marking a significant shift in military strategy. This drawdown follows successful operations against ISIS, including the territorial defeat of the terrorist organization and elimination of key leaders. While maintaining its commitment to regional security, the Pentagon emphasizes the need for international cooperation in addressing ISIS-linked detainees and preventing the group's resurgence across global territories.
