The Pentagon recently revealed that the United States currently has around 2,000 troops deployed in Syria, a significant increase from the previously disclosed number of 900. This move underscores the US commitment to combating the threat posed by ISIS in the region.
According to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the higher troop numbers were not initially disclosed due to diplomatic and operational security considerations. All 2,000 troops are dedicated to the mission of fighting ISIS and ensuring that the terrorist group does not exploit the transition in Syria to regroup.
Simultaneously, the Biden administration has appointed former ambassador and Syria envoy Daniel Rubinstein to lead American efforts in Syria. Rubinstein, along with other senior US officials, is set to visit Damascus in the coming days. This visit marks the first high-level American delegation to Syria since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad.
The delegation's agenda includes discussions on a set of principles outlined in Aqaba, focusing on human rights, counterterrorism efforts, and the elimination of chemical weapons. Additionally, efforts to locate American journalist Austin Tice, who has been detained in Syria for over 12 years, will be a key topic of conversation.
US officials have been engaging directly with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a designated terrorist group, to address these critical issues. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the US engagement with HTS, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in combatting terrorism and promoting stability in Syria.
