Syrian army takes control of Al-Shaddadi base from US forces

In a significant shift in military control, Syrian forces have taken ownership of Al-Shaddadi Military Base, located on the outskirts of Hasakah province. This takeover was confirmed by the Syrian Ministry of Defence after consultations with US authorities who had previously managed the facility as part of an international coalition against ISIS.

The base’s transfer comes amid broader U.S. withdrawals from key locations in Syria, including the Al-Tanf base near borders with Iraq and Jordan. Historically integral to the United States-led anti-ISI effort, the SDF—a major ally—has since been a critical component of regional security dynamics, particularly post-ISIS.

Following Bashar al-Assad’s departure, Syria’s new leadership has sought closer ties with Washington in an evolving geopolitical landscape. Meanwhile, CENTCOM reported targeted strikes against ISIS infrastructure and weapons caches over February 3 to 12, signaling the ongoing threat posed by remnants of the group.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged recent developments positively but highlighted challenges ahead: “We are satisfied with recent progress in Syria,” he said. “However, implementing agreements with Kurdish minorities and other groups will remain challenging.”

Rubio emphasized the importance of inclusive governance, noting, “In a diverse society like Syria, political reconciliation must include all communities—Druze, Bedouins, and Alawites.” The transfer at Al-Shaddadi underscores both efforts to reclaim sovereignty over crucial military assets and navigating new territorial challenges.

This strategic move is part of broader efforts by the Syrian government to strengthen its control over critical sites while addressing lingering threats from remnants of ISIS, all within a complex regional context.