The final convoy of US soldiers and equipment has left the Qasrak air base in Syria’s northeastern governorate of Hasakah, marking the completion of the handover of all military sites previously occupied by US forces to the Syrian government. The handover reflects the successful integration of Kurdish-led fighters into national structures, following a partnership that began in 2014 against ISIL. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with the leaders of the Syrian Democratic Forces to acknowledge the transition. The move comes after a deal in January between Damascus and the SDF, leading to the transfer of control of border areas and civilian institutions to the Syrian government.
Why It Matters
The departure of US forces from Syria signifies a significant shift in the country’s military landscape, with the Syrian government now fully in control of areas that were previously governed by Kurdish-led forces with US backing. This handover highlights the efforts to consolidate the country under a single state authority and integrate various factions into the national army. The move also marks a strategic realignment in the region, with Syria now seen as a partner in the fight against ISIL, altering the rationale for a continued US military presence in the country.
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