The US withdrawal from Syria is moving into its final phase as American forces begin vacating the Qasrak base in the northeast, according to Syrian, Kurdish, and diplomatic sources who spoke to AFP. Heavy military convoys have already started crossing toward Iraq as Washington winds down its military presence in areas once controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces.
The withdrawal comes as Syrian government forces expand their presence in regions previously run by the SDF, which recently agreed to integrate its structures into the Syrian state. Meanwhile, ISIS cells continue to pose a threat with intermittent attacks against security forces.
Details of the US withdrawal from Syria
Timeline estimated between 20 days and one month
A Syrian government source said the United States will complete its full military withdrawal within one month. A Kurdish source shared a similar estimate, stating that the departure will take between three and five weeks, ending nearly twelve years of US presence. A diplomatic source suggested the process may finish in roughly twenty days and confirmed that Washington will not maintain any military bases in Syria.
Qasrak base evacuation and major convoys
American forces have begun evacuating the Qasrak base in Hasakeh, one of the largest coalition installations in the area. AFP correspondents observed dozens of heavy trucks carrying armored vehicles and prefabricated units moving toward Iraq, escorted by US military vehicles and helicopters.
Transfer of equipment and personnel
Sources following the movements reported that successive shipments of military equipment, logistics systems, radar units, and missiles will depart from Qasrak and the remaining base at Kharab al Jir in Rmeilan. Most US personnel are expected to be airlifted out while ground units accompany outgoing convoys along international routes into Iraq.
Background behind the US withdrawal
Shifting control as Syrian government forces advance
The influence of the US‑led coalition has gradually decreased as Syrian government forces advanced into Raqqa and other areas formerly administered by the SDF. This changing landscape has accelerated the timeline for withdrawal.
Persistent threat from ISIS cells
ISIS continues operating through local cells and claimed responsibility for an attack on Monday that killed four security personnel at a checkpoint in Raqqa, according to Syrian state media. The group maintains limited but active networks capable of carrying out sporadic assaults.
Camps emptied and detainees transferred
The al Hol camp was nearly emptied after most residents left under unclear circumstances, while remaining individuals were relocated to a facility in Aleppo province. The United States also transferred more than 5700 detainees suspected of ISIS affiliation to Iraq earlier this month.
Human Rights Watch expressed concern for approximately 8500 people in case the Roj camp is closed, noting ongoing uncertainty surrounding their legal status and safety.
Continued US air capabilities after withdrawal
Ability to carry out strikes from regional bases
A diplomatic source confirmed that Washington could continue launching air operations against ISIS from bases outside Syria even after its ground withdrawal. The United States regularly announces targeted strikes against ISIS elements within Syria.
Rising tensions with Iran
The withdrawal coincides with the buildup of American military assets in the Middle East, including two aircraft carriers, amid heightened tensions with Iran. Tehran has warned that it will respond to any US attack by targeting American military positions in the region.
Conclusion:
As the US withdrawal from Syria accelerates, the region enters a new phase shaped by shifting alliances, evolving military dynamics, and ongoing threats from ISIS cells. The coming weeks will determine the impact of these changes on security across northeastern Syria and the Iraq-Syria border.
