In a recent press briefing, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder revealed that approximately 2,000 US troops are currently deployed to Syria. This number is significantly higher than the previously reported 900 troops .
According to Ryder, the additional troops are temporary rotational forces that have been deployed to support the Defeat ISIS mission. These forces are predominantly composed of Army personnel and are focused on meeting emerging mission requirements.
Ryder emphasized that the situation in Syria is being closely monitored by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and other DOD leaders. They are committed to mitigating the impacts of a potential government shutdown on the department.
In the event of a shutdown, active-duty personnel and reserve component personnel on federal active duty would continue to report for duty. However, they would not receive pay until new funds are appropriated by Congress. Civilian personnel not necessary for accepted activities would be furloughed.
Ryder urged Congress to reach a bipartisan agreement on Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations to avoid a government shutdown. The House Republicans have already agreed to a new government funding bill that includes a debt limit increase.