ALWAGHT- The US military has reportedly dispatched several convoys of trucks transporting troops, along with military and logistical equipment, from deep within Syria to a key airbase in Iraq’s Anbar province, home to American forces and trainers.
Several US military convoys crossed from Syria into Iraq on Saturday, heading to Ain al-Asad airbase in Anbar province, west of Baghdad. The convoys included troops, armored vehicles, logistical equipment, small arms, and heavy munitions, with US military aircraft providing aerial cover. Heightened security was observed along routes leading to the base, but the reason for the redeployment was not disclosed.
The move comes amid a Pentagon-confirmed reduction of US troops in Syria, with reports indicating around 600 personnel will be withdrawn in the coming weeks and months. While the Pentagon did not specify a timeline, it marks a significant shift in the US military presence in Syria, where approximately 2,000 troops remain stationed across multiple bases.
The US has maintained a presence in northeastern Syria since 2014, officially to counter ISIS. However, the Syrian government accuses Washington of illegally occupying territory and exploiting its natural resources, especially oil. Footage and reports over the years have supported claims of US involvement in smuggling Syrian oil to Iraq, and former President Trump openly stated that US forces were there for the oil. There have also been allegations of US support for ISIS via regional proxies.
