U.S. Military Completes Withdrawal from Strategic al-Tanf Garrison in Syria
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States military has officially completed its withdrawal from the al-Tanf Garrison in southern Syria, marking a significant shift in American military presence in the region. The departure was finalized on February 11, 2026, according to an announcement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). This move is part of a broader realignment of U.S. forces under Operation Inherent Resolve, the multinational coalition effort launched in 2014 to combat the Islamic State (ISIS) and prevent its resurgence.
For years, American troops maintained a limited presence at al-Tanf, a strategically located base near the borders of Syria, Iraq, and Jordan. The base served as a critical hub for supporting partner forces on the ground and blocking ISIS from reestablishing territorial control following its defeat in 2019. The Pentagon’s decision to scale back operations at al-Tanf was announced in April 2025, reflecting evolving priorities and a recalibration of U.S. military commitments in the Middle East.
Following the withdrawal, Syria’s Defense Ministry confirmed that government forces have taken control of the al-Tanf base and have begun deploying along the country’s borders with Iraq and Jordan. The handover was reportedly coordinated with U.S. officials, ensuring a smooth transition of control. Syrian Arab Army units moved promptly to secure the base and the surrounding tri-border desert region, according to reports from the Syrian Arab News Agency, the country’s state-run news outlet.
The al-Tanf Garrison has long been a focal point of regional tensions, given its proximity to critical supply routes and contested territories. The U.S. military’s presence there served not only to counter ISIS but also to limit the influence of Iranian-backed militias and other hostile actors in the area.
U.S. Central Command emphasized that the withdrawal does not signify an end to American efforts against ISIS in Syria and Iraq. Rather, it reflects a strategic shift toward supporting local partners and conducting targeted operations as needed. Recent U.S. military actions include airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria, underscoring an ongoing commitment to counterterrorism.
For more details on the coalition’s mission and the evolving U.S. posture in the region, see the official CENTCOM website. The Department of Defense has also provided updates on Operation Inherent Resolve, which continues to adapt to the complex security environment in the Middle East.
The handover of al-Tanf to Syrian government forces raises questions about the future balance of power in this volatile border region. Analysts note that the Syrian Arab Army’s deployment along the borders with Iraq and Jordan could affect regional dynamics, including cross-border security and the movement of various armed groups.
As the United States recalibrates its military footprint, it remains engaged diplomatically and militarily to prevent the reemergence of extremist groups and to support stability efforts. The withdrawal from al-Tanf is a notable milestone in this ongoing process.
For further information on U.S. military operations and foreign policy in Syria, visit the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Defense official portals.
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