Syria Takes Control of Former U.S. Military Bases as Troop Withdrawal Concludes

Syria has announced that it has regained full control of all military installations previously occupied by United States forces, marking a significant shift in the country’s security and political landscape. The development follows the departure of the final U.S. convoy from a base in northeastern Syria, bringing an end to a military presence that began in 2014.

The withdrawal concluded at the Qasrak air base in Hasakah province, where U.S. troops had been stationed as part of the international effort against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Over the years, American forces worked closely with Kurdish-led fighters who later formed the backbone of the Syrian Democratic Forces.

Syrian authorities say the handover of these bases reflects progress in consolidating national control, particularly in regions that had long operated outside the central government’s authority. The move is also tied to ongoing efforts to integrate Kurdish-led forces into state institutions, a process officials describe as crucial to restoring unity across the country.

President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently hosted key figures from the Syrian Democratic Forces in Damascus, including military commander Mazloum Abdi and political leader Ilham Ahmad. The meeting, which also included senior government officials, focused on advancing cooperation and formalizing the integration of these forces into the national framework.

In a statement, Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the transfer of control as a milestone in reasserting state authority over all territories, including border regions and the northeast. Officials noted that the process was carried out in coordination with the United States, suggesting a level of diplomatic engagement between both sides.

The development also comes months after a reported meeting between Donald Trump and President al-Sharaa, which Syrian officials say helped pave the way for improved communication and cooperation.

With the withdrawal now complete, Syria’s leadership is positioning the move as a step toward national stability and territorial unity, even as broader geopolitical dynamics in the region continue to evolve.