A potential withdrawal of U.S. military forces and equipment from Syria by President Donald Trump would be a “nightmare” scenario, aiding a resurgence of ISIS, according to Col. Salem Turki Al Antri, a commander of the U.S.-backed Syrian Free Army (SFA).
Speaking at the Al Tanf military base near the Syrian border with Iraq and Jordan, Col. Al Antri stressed the critical role U.S. support has played in combating ISIS and stabilizing the region. He warned that losing U.S. airpower, surveillance, and advanced military technology would significantly hinder operations against remaining ISIS cells scattered across Syria’s deserts.
The Role of the U.S. in the Region
The U.S. has been a key ally to the SDF, providing military, logistical, and strategic support in their campaign against ISIS. This partnership has led to the dismantling of the group’s territorial control, culminating in the fall of its so-called caliphate in 2019. However, ISIS remains active as an insurgency, carrying out guerrilla attacks across Syria and Iraq. The U.S. presence has been critical in curbing these activities and preventing the group from regaining strength.
Risks of a Withdrawal
The commander emphasized that a U.S. withdrawal would leave the region vulnerable to ISIS regrouping. Without air support, intelligence sharing, and advanced military resources provided by the U.S., local forces may struggle to contain the threat. Additionally, the vacuum left by the U.S. could create opportunities for other actors, including Iran and Russia, to expand their influence in Syria.
Humanitarian Concerns
Beyond military implications, a withdrawal could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian crisis in Syria. The region is home to thousands of displaced people living in camps, many of which house the families of ISIS fighters. Without the stabilizing presence of U.S. forces, these camps could become breeding grounds for extremism, further destabilizing the region.
International Reactions
The possibility of U.S. disengagement has drawn criticism from international allies who view the fight against ISIS as a shared global responsibility. NATO members and regional partners have expressed concern that abandoning Syria could undermine collective efforts to combat terrorism.
The withdrawal of U.S. support in Syria would not only jeopardize the progress made against ISIS but also leave a vacuum that could destabilize the region further. With the SFA and the new Syrian government struggling to rebuild and secure their territory, international cooperation remains critical to ensuring lasting peace and security.
