US to decide on Syria troop presence soon: Trump

President Donald Trump on Thursday stated that the United States will make a decision regarding its military presence in Syria, emphasizing that the country has no obligation to be involved in the conflict.

“We’ll make a determination on that,” Trump told reporters at the White House when asked about reports suggesting the U.S. is planning to withdraw troops.

“We’re not involved in Syria. Syria is in its own mess. They’ve got enough messes over there. They don’t need us involved.”

Reports suggest possible US withdrawal from Syria

Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported earlier this week that senior White House officials informed their Israeli counterparts of Trump’s intention to withdraw thousands of American troops from Syria.

The report comes amid ongoing discussions within the U.S. government regarding its military role in the region. According to a Pentagon statement in December 2024, around 2,000 American troops are currently stationed in Syria.

The report also noted that the decision has raised alarms in Tel Aviv, particularly regarding its potential impact on the terrorist organization PKK/YPG in Syria. Also in recent days, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar recently held a phone call with Ilham Ahmed, a so-called senior ringleader of the PKK/YPG, a conversation that’s the highest-level contact to date between Israel and the terrorist group reported so far.

“The withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria is expected to affect the PKK/YPG,” the report stated.

Uncertainty surrounds US strategy in Syria

When pressed about the possibility of a troop withdrawal, Trump did not confirm a decision but reiterated that the U.S. has no obligation to remain involved in Syria’s internal affairs.

“I don’t know who said that, but we’ll make a determination on that,” he said. “We’re not involved in Syria. Syria is in its own mess. They’ve got enough messes over there. They don’t need us involved.”

The administration has previously indicated a shift in foreign policy priorities, with a focus on reducing overseas military engagements. However, officials have not provided a clear timeline or details on any potential troop withdrawal.