The Defense Department revealed that there are approximately 2,000 U.S. troops deployed to Syria, which is significantly higher than the previously reported 900 troops. This increase is due to the deployment of an additional 1,100 temporary rotational forces to meet the changing mission requirements in the region. These temporary forces are typically deployed for 30 to 90 days, while the other 900 personnel are considered core assets on longer term deployments lasting around nine to 12 months. The fluctuation in troop numbers is common, and the additional forces have been in place since before the downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime on December 8.
Despite the potential for a partial government shutdown, the Defense Department is prepared to continue carrying out its mission to defend the nation and protect national security interests. Military personnel, including reserve component personnel on federal active duty, will continue to report for duty and carry out assigned missions worldwide. The Department has been conducting prudent planning and preparations for a potential shutdown, with senior leadership continually updating contingency plans to mitigate the impacts of a lapse in funding. However, service members would not be paid until new funds are appropriated by Congress in the event of a shutdown.
In the event of a government shutdown, federal government civilian personnel who are not necessary to carry out or support accepted activities would be furloughed with a lapse in appropriations. This could cause serious disruptions for the Defense Department, and DOD is urging Congress to reach a bipartisan agreement on Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations to avoid a shutdown. House Republicans had agreed to a new government funding bill that includes a debt limit increase, with a vote expected at 6 p.m. EST. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and DOD leaders are closely monitoring the situation and remain committed to mitigating the impacts of a potential shutdown on the department.
Overall, the increase in U.S. troops in Syria reflects the changing mission requirements in the region, with temporary rotational forces deployed to meet these needs. The Defense Department is prepared to continue its mission despite the potential for a government shutdown, with active duty personnel and reserve component personnel on federal active duty expected to report for duty. The department is urging Congress to reach an agreement on appropriations to avoid a shutdown and minimize disruptions to national security interests.
