{"id":127834,"date":"2025-07-31T11:32:43","date_gmt":"2025-07-31T11:32:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/npasyria.com\/en\/?p=127834"},"modified":"2025-07-31T11:32:45","modified_gmt":"2025-07-31T11:32:45","slug":"u-s-presence-in-syria-vital-to-stability-counterterrorism-ex-coalition-spox","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/npasyria.com\/en\/127834\/","title":{"rendered":"U.S. presence in Syria vital to stability, counterterrorism \u2013 Ex-Coalition Spox."},"content":{"rendered":"\n

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) \u2013 <\/strong>Myles Caggins, former spokesperson for the U.S.-led Global Coalition, stated on Thursday that the presence of U.S. forces in northeastern Syria is vital to sustaining the victory over the Islamic State (ISIS) and ensuring regional stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He noted to six strategic motivations ranging from security and counterterrorism to economic investment and protecting minorities.   <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caggins emphasized that the United States is morally and strategically obligated to maintain its military presence in northeastern Syria, citing several key reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consolidating victory over ISIS<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In an exclusive interview with North Press, Caggins explained that U.S. forces partnered with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in critical battles, from the liberation of Kobani in 2014\u20132015 to the battle of Baghuz in 2019, which ended ISIS’ territorial control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He noted that around 10,000 ISIS detainees, including more than 2,000 foreign nationals from 50 countries, are still held by the SDF. Washington provides over $130 million annually to support prison operations and prevent escapes or a resurgence of the group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“So, the American forces should stay here to preserve the victory,” Caggins said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Economic potential<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

He highlighted that northeastern Syria is rich in untapped oil resources and that U.S. companies have the expertise to develop production and create jobs for local communities, similar to American projects in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region. “Strong American companies can come here and make investments to produce more oil for exporting,” he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Caggins, investment in the oil sector can ensure economic prosperity that benefits both Syrians and the U.S. economy, saying “when there is more oil coming out of the ground, there can be more economic riches for all the people of Syria.”  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Operational readiness of U.S. special forces<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Caggins described northeastern Syria as the only active place where U.S. forces conduct field operations against ISIS cells alongside SDF counterterrorism units.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He argued that the presence of fewer than 2,000 U.S. troops is temporary but essential to prevent ISIS’ return and to maintain the readiness of U.S. special operations forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Supporting social diversity and women\u2019s empowerment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

He pointed out that the region demonstrates pluralism similar to the American model, including women in leadership roles. “Women in northeastern Syria are respected, included, and encouraged to have full participation in society,” Caggins said. “We see women who are leaders in politics, leaders in the military, and some women are beginning to work in businesses.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He also noted to the religious coexistence among Muslims and Christians in Northeast Syria region, saying that in Qamishli city for example, “you will see a mosque on one street and a Christian church on another.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“In the north and east of Syria, you can see an example of how people here have been able to live and worship, and raise their family in the manner that is best for them.”  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

By Nalin Ali<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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