The Syrian Ministry of Defense announced today that the Syrian Army has taken control of the al-Shaddadi military base located in the Hasakah province of northeastern Syria, following coordination with the United States. This development signifies a collaboration between U.S. forces and Syrian military, especially in a region that has seen various factions vying for control since the defeat of the Islamic State. The base is noted for its strategic value, connecting the Hasakah and Deir ez-Zor provinces, which are critical for regional security and oil production.

The al-Shaddadi base had been under the control of the U.S.-led coalition since 2016 when it was liberated from ISIS. It acted as a key operational center for managing military actions and securing the oil fields in the area. The recent transfer of control follows the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the al-Tanf base and is part of a larger agreement facilitated by the U.S. to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the Syrian state structures, aiming to quell divisions within the country.

This step reflects the shifting dynamics in Syria, particularly concerning U.S. policy in the region and the increasing presence and authority of the Syrian government over previously contested areas. The implications of this transfer are critical for the balance of power among various factions in Syria and may indicate a push by the Syrian government to consolidate control over its territories while navigating international relations, especially with both the U.S. and Kurdish forces.