Published：Feb 12, 07:28Last updated：Feb 21, 19:53

US Begins Full Troop Withdrawal from Syria and Announces Embassy Reopening Amid Major Policy Shift

Feb. 12, 2026 07:28

US troops have withdrawn from the Al-Tanf military base in southeastern Syria, handing over control to Syrian authorities and relocating to Jordan. The withdrawal was completed by Wednesday, with equipment being moved out over the past 15 days, according to sources. The base, established in 2016, was a strategic hub for operations against ISIS and training Syrian opposition forces. The move follows improved relations between the US and the new Syrian government after years of conflict.

Summarized

28News

18Media

Feb. 21, 2026 17:20

On February 12, the Western coalition withdrew troops from the Al-Tanf base at the junction of Syria, Iraq, and Jordan. This move affected control over the strategic Damascus-Baghdad highway, marking a significant change in military presence in the region.

Feb. 21, 2026 19:53

Syrian government forces entered the city of Qamishli, a majority Kurdish area, on February 3, 2026, taking control of an airport previously held by Kurds. The forces were seen moving along a road into the city, indicating a shift in control in the region.

The United States has initiated a comprehensive withdrawal of its military forces from Syria, marking the end of a deployment that has shaped regional dynamics since 2016. This move, announced in February 2026, involves the removal of approximately 1,000 troops and is paired with a significant diplomatic overture: the US government has formally notified Congress of plans to reopen its embassy in Damascus after a 14-year closure. The phased embassy reopening and military drawdown reflect a recalibration of US strategy, emphasizing renewed diplomatic engagement with the Syrian transitional government and a reduced military footprint in the region. Huanqiu+2

🗺️ Withdrawal Scope, Timeline, and Key Locations

The US withdrawal encompasses all major bases in Syria, including those in the northeast and southeast such as Al-Tanf, Kasruk, and Khasakah. The process began on February 21, 2026, with the evacuation of the Khasakah and Kasruk bases in Hasakah Province, following earlier withdrawals from bases near Jordan and Iraq. The operation is expected to conclude within two months. The following table outlines the key withdrawal points and recent developments:

Location	Status	Notes
Al-Tanf	Completed	Western coalition withdrew Feb 12, 2026
Kasruk	Ongoing	Withdrawal started Feb 21, 2026
Khasakah	Ongoing	Withdrawal started Feb 21, 2026
Qamishli	Reduced patrols	Syrian forces entered Feb 3, 2026
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🤝 Diplomatic Reset and Regional Power Shifts

The withdrawal is closely linked to US efforts to restore diplomatic relations with Syria’s transitional government, following recent political changes and the near dissolution of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a key US ally. The embassy reopening will begin with funding within 15 days, though a full timeline has not been specified. Syrian government forces have reasserted control in key Kurdish areas, notably entering Qamishli and taking over strategic infrastructure. These shifts underscore a broader realignment of regional power and the US pivot toward diplomacy. Huanqiu+2

📰 Official Statements, Congressional Notification, and Policy Context

US officials have formally notified Congress of both the troop withdrawal and the phased reopening of the embassy. The administration, citing the reduced necessity for a military presence due to the collapse of US-backed Kurdish forces, frames these moves as part of a broader strategic adjustment. The Pentagon and other agencies emphasize the intent to strengthen diplomatic ties and support regional stability, while also acknowledging the risks and uncertainties for former US partners in Syria. Huanqiu+2

ISISJordanAl-Tanf baseSyrian governmentUS Central Command