Core Viewpoint - The U.S. military has begun withdrawing from its largest base in northeastern Syria, signaling a significant shift in its military presence in the region [1][4]. Group 1: Withdrawal Details - On the morning of the 23rd, dozens of trucks, some carrying armored vehicles, left the Kasrak military base in Hasakeh province [1]. - The U.S.-led coalition will retain a base near the Syria-Iraq border, despite the complete withdrawal from the Kasrak base, which has been a key hub for operations against the Islamic State [4]. Group 2: Historical Context - The U.S. formed an international coalition in September 2014 to conduct airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria and Iraq, and began deploying troops in northeastern Syria in 2015 to support the Syrian Democratic Forces [6]. - Following a political shift in Syria in December 2024, relations between the Syrian transitional government and the U.S. improved, culminating in a visit by Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to the U.S. in November 2025, marking the first visit by a Syrian leader since the country's independence in 1946 [6]. - The U.S. is withdrawing approximately 1,000 soldiers from Syria, ending a decade-long military presence, as the Syrian Democratic Forces, supported by the U.S., are nearing dissolution [6].