Pentagon says U.S. forces to stay in Syria to prevent ISIS resurgence
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The U.S. Department of Defense reaffirmed on Sunday its commitment to maintaining an American military presence in Syria to counter the potential resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS).
Daniel Shapiro, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle Eastern Affairs, stated that Washington “will take measures necessary to prevent a resurgence of the Islamic Stat.”
Shapiro underscored the strategic importance of this presence, adding that the United States will continue to operate in eastern Syria, ensuring measures are in place to block the extremist group’s revival.
He further cautioned the chaotic and shifting conditions in Syria could provide ISIS with the opportunity to regain operational capabilities and plan external attacks.
The Pentagon’s statement came in the aftermath of the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, marked by the entry of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and allied opposition factions into Damascus earlier on Sunday.
Last week, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder reiterated the ongoing collaboration with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), saying that the Pentagon maintains continuous coordination with the SDF, underscoring their partnership in northeastern Syria.