U.S. Completes Troop Withdrawal from Strategic Al-Tanf Garrison in Syria
TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed today that American military forces have successfully completed an orderly departure from the al-Tanf Garrison in Syria. The withdrawal, finalized on February 11, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing mission of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) and aligns with the strategic consolidation of U.S. assets in the region.
The departure from the southern Syrian base serves as the latest step in a deliberate, conditions-based transition plan first outlined by defense officials last year. In April 2025, the Department of War announced that the U.S. military would begin consolidating its force posture in Syria, shifting focus following the territorial defeat of ISIS in 2019. This restructuring is designed to optimize the U.S. footprint while maintaining the capability to advise, assist, and enable partner forces effectively.
Al-Tanf Garrison, located near the tri-border area of Syria, Jordan, and Iraq, has served as a critical hub for Coalition operations since its establishment by CENTCOM in 2014. For over a decade, the base has been instrumental in the fight against the Islamic State, training local partner forces and disrupting illicit transit routes used by extremist groups.
Despite the reduction in physical presence at al-Tanf, military leadership emphasizes that the counter-ISIS mission remains active and robust. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to regional stability.
“U.S. forces remain poised to respond to any ISIS threats that arise in the region as we support partner-led efforts to prevent the terrorist network’s resurgence,” Adm. Cooper stated. “Maintaining pressure on ISIS is essential to protecting the U.S. homeland and strengthening regional security.”
Operational data released by CENTCOM highlights the continued intensity of the campaign even during this transition period. Over the past two months alone, U.S. forces have executed strikes against more than 100 targets, utilizing over 350 precision munitions. These operations have resulted in the capture or death of more than 50 ISIS operatives, degrading the group’s ability to reorganize or launch attacks.
The transition reflects the evolving nature of the conflict, moving from large-scale combat operations to a more targeted approach focused on containment and partner support. Officials have not disclosed the specific new locations of the relocated personnel, citing operational security, but confirmed that the coalition retains sufficient combat power in the theater to address emerging threats.
As the mission evolves, CJTF-OIR continues to work closely with local and regional partners to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS and to prevent the group from exploiting any security vacuums in the Syrian desert.
* newarab.com
* centcom.mil
