The additional personnel, described as temporary forces, have reportedly been deployed to support missions targeting the remnants of the Islamic State (ISIS).
Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder addressed the discrepancy during a briefing, explaining that the previously undisclosed increase stemmed from temporary deployments and the rotation of troops.
"It's not uncommon for these numbers to fluctuate as units rotate in and out. But given the current situation in Syria, I was recently made aware that the numbers were significantly higher than the approximate 900 we had been reporting," Ryder said.
The core group of approximately 900 troops represents long-term deployments of 9 to 12 months, according to Ryder. In contrast, the temporary forces, typically on rotations of 30 to 90 days, are brought in to address emerging mission needs associated with the fight against ISIS.
He declined to provide a breakdown between conventional and special operations forces but emphasized that all deployed personnel are focused on defeating ISIS.
Ryder noted that part of the mission also involves ensuring diplomatic and operational security in the region. The discrepancy in troop numbers prompted a review, with Ryder stating, "Given the difference in the numbers we've been providing, I made the decision to disclose the updated figure."
When pressed about how long the higher troop levels have been in place, Ryder admitted he could not pinpoint an exact timeline but suggested it had been ongoing for months, predating the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.
The revelation echoes similar cases in the past where troop numbers in active deployment zones were underreported, raising questions about transparency in U.S. military operations abroad.
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President Emmanuel Macron faces backlash during his Mayotte visit as Cyclone Chido leaves devastation, 31 confirmed deaths, and fears of thousands more amid slow aid and rescue efforts.
Rwanda declares an end to the Marburg virus outbreak after 42 days with no new cases, reporting 66 cases, 15 deaths, and 51 recoveries, says Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana.
Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng emphasized China’s economic resilience and called for collaboration between China and the U.S. to ensure mutual security and prosperity.
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President Emmanuel Macron faces backlash during his Mayotte visit as Cyclone Chido leaves devastation, 31 confirmed deaths, and fears of thousands more amid slow aid and rescue efforts.
Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng emphasized China’s economic resilience and called for collaboration between China and the U.S. to ensure mutual security and prosperity.
In response to escalating trade tensions with the United States, China has unveiled a series of measures aimed at bolstering its economy, including increased borrowing and further interest rate cuts. These steps reflect Beijing’s determination to stabilize growth and shield itself from the impact of
New government focuses on rebuilding Syria’s education system, damaged by 13 years of war.
Amazon workers have gone on strike at several facilities across the country in efforts to pressure the retailer into contract talks with their union. This comes as the company is in the crucial final days of the holiday season.
President Emmanuel Macron faces backlash during his Mayotte visit as Cyclone Chido leaves devastation, 31 confirmed deaths, and fears of thousands more amid slow aid and rescue efforts.
Rwanda declares an end to the Marburg virus outbreak after 42 days with no new cases, reporting 66 cases, 15 deaths, and 51 recoveries, says Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana.
Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng emphasized China’s economic resilience and called for collaboration between China and the U.S. to ensure mutual security and prosperity.
In response to escalating trade tensions with the United States, China has unveiled a series of measures aimed at bolstering its economy, including increased borrowing and further interest rate cuts. These steps reflect Beijing’s determination to stabilize growth and shield itself from the impact of
U.S. lawmakers have given TikTok a January 19 deadline to comply with new measures or face removal from app stores due to data privacy and national security concerns, highlighting geopolitical tensions surrounding the short-video app.
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