The Syrian government has officially assumed control of all military bases previously occupied by United States forces marking the end of a decade-long American military presence in the country.
The transition culminated Thursday as the final convoy of US troops and hardware departed the Qasrak Air Base in Hasakah province. The Syrian Defense Ministry confirmed that its forces moved into the facility immediately following the departure of the US-led international coalition.
The handover is the result of a significant diplomatic and military shift under the government of President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Following a deal struck in early 2026 the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are being integrated into the national army. This internal unification, combined with Syria formally joining the international anti-Daesh (ISIS) coalition, effectively ended the original mandate for independent US operations.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the transition, describing it as a "deliberate and conditions-based" handover. While previous reports noted a small security presence in Qamishli and Hasakah, the departure from major hubs like Qasrak, Rmeilan, and Al-Tanf signals the completion of the formal withdrawal.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry welcomed the move stating it reflects a "shared assessment" that the circumstances requiring US presence have changed. Damascus maintains it is now fully capable of leading counter-terrorism efforts within its borders.
