Why Has the Pentagon Increased U.S. Troop Numbers in Syria After Assad’s Fall?

Alex Marquardt, CNN’s National Security Correspondent, recently revealed that the actual number of U.S. troops in Syria has risen to 2,000 soldiers, far exceeding the previously reported figure of 900.

Marquardt noted, “There are real questions about the administration’s transparency (regarding the Department of Defense) in this case. I think this reflects their concerns about what’s happening in Syria. We’ve seen a significant increase in U.S. actions against ISIS in Syria, but for years, we’ve been saying there are 900 U.S. troops in Syria—only to discover yesterday that the number is more than double.”

He further explained, “The 900 troops were believed to constitute the core of the U.S. mission in Syria. The increase in forces is intended to address these tumultuous times. It remains to be seen how long they will stay.”

Background on U.S. Military Presence in Syria

U.S. troops first entered Syria in 2015 under the 2001 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF), initially issued to combat al-Qaeda in Afghanistan and later to facilitate the invasion of Iraq and the removal of Saddam Hussein.

President Barack Obama interpreted these authorizations to extend to the fight against ISIS as the group gained a foothold in Syria in 2013. By 2015, ISIS had expanded its territorial control and carried out attacks in Europe, prompting the United States and its allies to launch thousands of airstrikes on ISIS targets in Syria. Simultaneously, the U.S. provided support to the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in their fight against ISIS.

The Evolution of U.S. Strategy in Syria

In 2018, the United States began withdrawing most of its troops from Syria, leaving behind an emergency force of about 400 soldiers. Over time, this number gradually increased. By the summer of 2024, according to data from the Congressional Research Service, U.S. troop numbers had reached approximately 800 soldiers, funded by a $156 million allocation to the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund for operations in Syria.

The recent surge to 2,000 troops underscores a strategic shift, reflecting heightened concerns about instability in the region following the fall of the Assad regime.

Motivations Behind the Troop Increase

The Pentagon’s decision to increase troop numbers appears to stem from a combination of factors:

1. 1. Resurgence of ISIS: Despite significant territorial losses, ISIS remains active and capable of launching insurgent attacks. The expanded U.S. presence aims to counter this threat and prevent the group from regaining strength.

1. 1. Regional Instability: The fall of Assad has created a power vacuum, leading to heightened tensions among various factions and external actors vying for influence in Syria.

1. 1. Geopolitical Competition: The U.S. seeks to counter the growing influence of Iran and Russia in the region while supporting allies such as the Kurdish-led SDF.

1. 1. Strategic Positioning: By maintaining a strong presence, the U.S. ensures it can respond rapidly to any emergent threats or changes in the balance of power in Syria.

Implications for the Future

The increase in U.S. troop levels in Syria raises important questions about the duration and scope of the American mission. While the official goal remains the containment of ISIS, the expanded presence reflects broader strategic concerns in a post-Assad Syria.

However, the surge in U.S. forces is not without controversy. Critics argue that prolonged military involvement in Syria risks entangling the U.S. in further conflicts and could undermine regional stability.