Syrian Army Secures Al-Shaddadi Base Following US-Coordinated Withdrawal in Northeastern Syria

NORTHEAST SYRIA - Syrian forces assumed control of the al-Shaddadi base in southern Hasakah on January 19, amid a broader US troop withdrawal that culminated in the completion of ISIS detainee transfers to Iraq by February 14.

The transition stems from a US-mediated ceasefire and integration agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces signed on January 18, which outlined the handover of key territories and facilities.

Renewed clashes led to a second ceasefire on January 20, extended for consultations, paving the way for a comprehensive deal on January 30.

Key Developments

Syrian Arab Army units entered al-Shaddadi town on January 19, after the Syrian Democratic Forces released ISIS detainees from the local prison, prompting search operations that resulted in the arrest of over 100 militants.

The base itself transitioned under the terms of the US-coordinated agreement, with Syrian forces securing the facility and its surroundings.

US forces withdrew from al-Shaddadi around early February, with convoys transporting equipment and detainees toward Iraq.

This followed the handover of al-Tanf base on February 12, where Syrian troops deployed along borders with Iraq and Jordan to enhance security.

The Syrian Interior Ministry deployed forces to Hasakah and Qamishli under the January 30 agreement, integrating local security while civil institutions restored services in vacated areas.

Operational Implications

The withdrawals and handovers reduce potential security gaps in northeastern Syria, with Syrian forces prioritizing ISIS prison management and border control. US Central Command’s airstrikes from December 2025 to February 2026 targeted ISIS infrastructure, supporting partner efforts to prevent resurgence during the transition.

The integration deal reorganizes select Syrian Democratic Forces units under Syrian command, retaining a brigade for border areas like Kobani, while heavy weapons and oil fields transfer to state control.