Pentagon on Troop Withdrawal from Syria: Austin Named the Reasons.

The US Secretary of Defense Calls to Keep Forces in Syria due to 'Islamic State'

Lloyd Austin, the US Secretary of Defense, stated that troops must remain there to prevent the resurgence of the 'Islamic State' as Bashar al-Assad comes to an end. American troops are needed to secure the camps where former ISIS fighters and their relatives are held. The number of terrorists in the camps ranges from 8,000 to 10,000, with at least 2,000 of them being dangerous. Austin assured that without protection, Syria risks the return of 'Islamic State' fighters to the mainstream. Meanwhile, the future of Syria's transitional government remains unclear.

The minister also noted that the Syrian democratic forces, which have been US allies, are under threat. He warned that Syrian troops might gain control over the 'Islamic State' camps, assimilating with the democratic forces. However, it is currently important to protect American interests in Syria.

In the fight against the 'Islamic State' in Syria, American forces collaborate with democratic forces led by the Kurds, whom Turkey considers terrorists. The presence of American troops was called into question after Assad's overthrow on December 8, which led to the end of his decade-long rule.