A new wave of violence has gripped Syria following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024, with reports emerging of summary executions carried out by fighters affiliated with the nation’s new Islamist leaders. These developments coincide with a reported drawdown of U.S. troops in the region, raising concerns about the future stability of the war-torn country.
According to a Syria monitor, 35 executions, primarily targeting former Assad-era officers, have been carried out over a 72-hour period. The new authorities, installed by rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), claim to have made multiple arrests in the western Homs area for unspecified “violations.”
The reported executions are occurring against the backdrop of shifting U.S. military strategy in Syria. The Kyiv Independent reported on April 18, 2025, that the United States is closing three of its eight operational bases in northeastern Syria. These closures, which include Mission Support Site Green Village, MSS Euphrates, and a smaller unnamed facility, will reduce the U.S. troop presence from 2,000 to 1,400. U.S. commanders will decide within 60 days whether to further reduce troop presence. The U.S. military will continue supporting the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in operations against the Islamic State.
The U.S. troop reduction raises questions about its continued commitment to the region and the potential impact on the fight against ISIS. Simultaneously, Russia is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts. On April 17, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani in Moscow to discuss Syria, signaling Russia’s ongoing interest in the region.
The recent turmoil follows a long period of conflict in Syria, dating back to the civil war that began in 2011 and the more recent fall of Assad’s regime. The international community will be watching closely to see how the transitional government addresses human rights concerns and navigates the complex political landscape.