US withdraws some military equipment from Syria

<p>By Kasim Ileri</p> <p>WASHINGTON (AA) -The U.S. has started withdrawing military equipment from Syria, an official from the Pentagon confirmed Thursday. </p> <p>The official, who asked not to be named, told Anadolu Agency the removal of &quot;some of the equipment&quot; had begun. </p> <p>He declined to elaborate on the type of military equipment involved or where it was removed from due to “security concerns”. </p> <p>CNN reported earlier that the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has identified ships, aircraft and ground units that will be used in the operation.</p> <p>In December, President Donald Trump announced plans to withdraw all 2,000 U.S. troops from Syria, claiming that American forces had defeated Daesh there.</p> <p>The move sparked criticism from many allies and security aides, including his own Cabinet.</p> <p>Following the announcement, Defense Secretary James Mattis submitted his resignation letter. The withdrawal is being carried out under an order signed by Mattis before he left office on Dec. 31. </p> *Servet Gunerigok contributed to this story