United States Withdraws from Syria

United States forces have begun a phased withdrawal from their largest base in northeastern Syria, Qasrak, and are expected to complete their departure from the country within a month. This move comes as the Syrian government, under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, consolidates control over territories previously held by the United States-allied Syrian Democratic Forces. The United States military's Central Command did not immediately comment on the withdrawal. The Syrian Democratic Forces have agreed to integrate their institutions with Damascus, and Syria has formally joined the international coalition against Islamic State. The United States has also transferred thousands of Islamic State suspects to Iraq. This withdrawal marks the end of a decade-long United States military presence in Syria, where troops were deployed to fight Islamic State.