US military convoys move from Syria to Iraq’s Ain al-Asad base

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
20 Apr 2025 14:28
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Multiple US military convoys reportedly crossed into Iraq from Syria, transporting US troops and heavy equipment to Ain al-Asad airbase in Iraq’s western Anbar province.

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This Dec. 29, 2019, aerial file photo taken from a helicopter shows Ain al-Asad air base in the western Anbar desert, Iraq. (AP)

Several US military convoys reportedly entered Iraq from Syria on Saturday, carrying occupation forces and heavy equipment to the Ain al-Asad airbase in western Anbar province, according to Iraqi security sources quoted by al-Maalomah news agency.

The deployment represents a notable shift of the US occupation forces from Syria to Iraq, although the reasons behind the move have not been officially disclosed.

A security source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the news agency that the convoys included armored vehicles, logistical support equipment, troops, small arms and light weapons (SALW), and heavy munitions. The convoys entered Iraq and made their way to the Ain al-Asad base, located roughly 160 kilometers (100 miles) west of Baghdad.

The same source emphasized that US military aircraft provided aerial cover for the convoys throughout the route. In addition, unprecedented security measures were implemented on both main and secondary roads leading to the base.

Purpose of redeployment remains unclear

The exact reasons for the withdrawal of US occupation forces from Syria and their redeployment to Ain al-Asad remain unclear. However, it is worth noting that no official statement has been released by the US Department of Defense regarding the operation.

The Ain al-Asad base has long served as a central hub for US occupation forces in Iraq, hosting American military personnel and trainers.

The Pentagon confirmed on Saturday plans to significantly reduce the US occupation forces in Syria, lowering troop levels to fewer than 1,000 in the coming months.

Speaking to reporters, Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell announced that the military “will consolidate its presence in Syria over the coming weeks and months,” describing the reduction as part of a “deliberate and conditions-based process.” The decision will bring the total number of deployed personnel to under 1,000 US forces.

At present, approximately 2,000 US occupation forces are stationed across various bases in northeastern Syria.

The troop reduction will be conducted under the framework of Operation Inherent Resolve, which the US sells as a campaign against ISIS. According to defense officials, the remaining forces will be consolidated at select strategic locations, allowing the military to maintain flexibility while streamlining its footprint.

The drawdown is being overseen by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and is aligned with broader strategic goals, including shifting resources while continuing to monitor "extremist threats".

Meanwhile, the US military alleged that it will remain committed to combat operations against ISIS. Parnell emphasized that US Central Command remains fully capable of launching strikes against remaining 'militant targets' in Syria.

“CENTCOM will remain poised to continue strikes against what is left of ISIS in Syria,” Parnell claimed, adding that operational readiness remains a top priority even as troop numbers decrease.