WASHINGTON — Recent large-scale airstrikes conducted by the U.S. against Islamic State militants in Syria were partly intended as a warning to the group, aimed at preventing it from exploiting the turmoil that has ensued following the collapse of President Bashar Assad’s regime. The U.S. and its allies aim to ensure that the Islamic State, which continues to have a presence in Syria, cannot fill the leadership gap and regain control over significant parts of the country, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh. On Sunday, the U.S. targeted approximately 75 locations associated with ISIS in the Syrian desert.
The United States has maintained a military presence in Syria for nearly a decade with the primary mission of combating IS militants. The recent upheaval caused by a rebel offensive that ousted Assad has raised concerns regarding a potential resurgence of Islamic State activities. Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked that “ISIS will try to use this period to reestablish its capabilities”, asserting that recent precision strikes demonstrate the U.S.’s commitment to preventing this.
For now, U.S. officials indicate that there is no intention to increase the number of American forces in Syria, instead prioritizing the safety of the troops already deployed there. Currently, the U.S. has around 900 troops in Syria, as well as an undisclosed count of contractors stationed primarily at smaller bases located in the north and east regions of the country, and a few personnel at the al-Tanf garrison in the south, near the borders with Iraq and Jordan. Additionally, U.S. special operations forces frequently conduct operations in Syria, although they are typically in small groups and not counted in the official troop numbers.
The Islamic State managed to capture significant territories in Iraq and Syria in 2014, declaring a self-styled caliphate. However, following a coalition led by the U.S., IS was defeated in Iraq in 2017, and cooperation with Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces eventually led to the declaration of the defeat of the caliphate in Syria by 2019. Despite this, remnants of the group persist, with estimates of around 10,000 fighters located in detention facilities operated by the SDF, along with tens of thousands of their family members living in refugee camps. Notably, IS militants have shown increased activity over the past year, including assaults directed at both U.S. and Kurdish forces.
Syria remains a battleground with various factions vying for influence. Russia retains a naval presence in the north, and although its military assets have diminished since the onset of the Ukraine war, the U.S. operates a communication line with Moscow to prevent accidents involving their forces in either ground or air operations. Iran has a considerable foothold in Syria as well, often using the country as a conduit for weapon shipments into Lebanon for Hezbollah’s use against Israel. The al-Tanf base plays a crucial role in preventing these shipments, effectively monitoring and disrupting Iranian-backed militias.
The rationale for striking Islamic State targets is rooted in a long-standing strategy to weaken the group’s capabilities. Over the years, the U.S. has consistently targeted IS leaders, facilities, and weaponry to inhibit their growth and reintegration into the region. The escalation of conflict in the region, particularly with Israel’s ongoing issues with Hamas and Hezbollah, has also increased hostilities from Iran-affiliated militias and ISIS, prompting the U.S. to maintain active counter-assaults against these factions. Although IS is significantly weaker than it was in 2014, officials remain aware of its continued presence in Syria.
In one of its most comprehensive military operations, the U.S. recently targeted five locations linked to IS militants using B-52 bombers, A-10 attack aircraft, and F-15 fighter jets in a strategic attempt to exploit the former regime’s destabilization. Singh emphasized that these actions send a clear message about U.S. readiness to use significant military assets against the threat.
Looking ahead, the Biden administration has reiterated that it will refrain from directly engaging in Syria’s civil war or facilitating the removal of Assad. Nonetheless, the U.S. and its allies are deeply invested in stabilizing Syria to combat IS, counter Iranian influence, and manage the remaining elements of al-Qaida and other terrorist factions. Concerns about rising instability and potential political violence are prevalent, with past officials suggesting that ISIS could become emboldened amidst the chaos.
A significant challenge lies in determining who will govern Syria moving forward. The current opposition forces in Damascus are led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group that originated from al-Qaida but later distanced itself. HTS is recognized as a foreign terrorist organization by both the U.S. and the United Nations. Its leader has attempted to project a more moderate image, yet U.S. officials remain cautious, opting for a wait-and-see approach.
National security spokesperson John Kirby confirmed that while HTS played a leading role, they are not the sole opposition faction, and the U.S. is committed to engaging with various groups through diplomatic channels, including the United Nations. Although no formal communications with HTS are in place, the U.S. is exploring alternative methods for effective messaging in the region.
