US maintains military presence in eastern Syria to counter Islamic State threat

The U.S. will continue its military presence in eastern Syria to prevent a resurgence of the Islamic State, according to Pentagon officials. This commitment follows the announcement by Syrian rebels that they have overthrown President Bashar al-Assad. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Daniel Shapiro emphasized the need to protect civilians, especially minorities, amid the changing situation. He noted that the chaos could allow ISIS to regain strength and plan operations. The U.S. aims to ensure the defeat of ISIS and the secure detention of its fighters. The situation is complicated by the influence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group previously linked to al-Qaeda, in the new political landscape.