U.S. forces remain focused on anti-ISIS mission in Syria – Pentagon
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Pentagon reaffirmed on Tuesday its commitment to defeating the Islamic State (ISIS), stressing that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been essential allies in this effort amid escalating threats by Iranian-backed militias.
Pentagon spokesperson Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said during a press briefing “The U.S. forces that are in Syria and our focus in Syria is on the enduring defeat of ISIS and that will continue to remain our focus,” Ryder stated.
He acknowledged the SDF as crucial partners in this mission and underscored that their cooperation is central to the U.S. strategy.
When questioned about the impact of ongoing clashes between the SDF and Iranian-backed militias, Ryder noted the complex nature of Syria’s security landscape.
Despite these challenges, he reaffirmed that the U.S. presence and strategic objectives in Syria are firmly centered on combating ISIS.
“Given the fact that much of it [Syria] is essentially considered an ungoverned space for many years now, which is what has enabled groups like ISIS to foment, continues to be a challenge.”
Ryder added that the focus of the U.S. presence in Syria remains on the enduring defeat of ISIS.