U.S. military engagement in various conflicts remains a significant yet often overlooked aspect of America’s foreign policy. Despite the lack of media coverage and public interest, American troops continue to operate in places like Syria, Iraq, Somalia, and Yemen. These missions are far from the large-scale wars that defined the post-9/11 era; they are quieter and more targeted, executed under authorities established more than two decades ago. This situation raises questions about American military strategy, public awareness, and the realities faced by service members today.
As of June, around 40,000 U.S. troops remain stationed in the Middle East. While the military footprint has reduced compared to the height of the conflicts, it certainly hasn’t disappeared. American forces in Syria, numbering roughly 900, are engaged in active counterterrorism operations against the Islamic State group and must also defend against Iranian-backed militias. Officially presented as a stabilization mission, the reality is that U.S. troops remain vulnerable to rocket and drone attacks. The recent deaths of two National Guardsmen and an American contractor at the hands of an ISIS fighter starkly illustrate the dangers still present in the region.
The U.S. military’s involvement in Syria began in 2014, initially to combat ISIS. Following the group’s territorial defeat, many expected a full withdrawal. However, the military presence, albeit reduced, persisted to prevent a resurgence of ISIS and counter Iranian influence. This ongoing mission operates without a formal declaration of war, leading to a sense of disconnection between the military’s actions and the American public’s perception of the conflict.
In Iraq, U.S. forces are slowly transitioning their role. An agreement with the Iraqi government involves reducing troop numbers and shifting responsibility for countering ISIS to local security forces. However, American troops are still present and actively responding to threats from Iranian-backed militias. While the nature of U.S. involvement in Iraq has evolved from direct combat to a more supportive role, it remains a complex environment with ongoing risks.
Similarly, in Somalia, U.S. special operations forces are engaged alongside Somali troops against al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked group that continues to inflict harm. Regular airstrikes are part of this mission, yet the operations often go unnoticed due to their limited scale and the lack of sustained media attention. Historically, American military involvement in Somalia was marked by the tragic “Black Hawk Down” incident in 1993, which led to withdrawal. Nevertheless, U.S. forces have returned, adapting their mission to the evolving threats posed by extremist groups.
In Yemen, American naval and air forces face off against Houthi rebels, who are supported by Iran. While there is no official troop presence in Yemen, U.S. military action is ongoing, characterized by interceptions of rockets and drones aimed at preserving international shipping routes. A significant campaign launched in spring 2025 underscores the ongoing confrontations faced by American forces, as strikes targeted over 1,000 sites linked to Houthi military capabilities.
These conflicts challenge the traditional notion of war in America. Most hostilities continue to operate under post-9/11 authorizations that never expired. This creates a paradox where significant military operations occur with little public acknowledgment or debate. The changing dynamics in the Middle East, as indicated by the current administration’s national security strategy, suggest a shift toward partnership and investment rather than confrontation. However, as long as threats like Iran persist, the likelihood of American troops withdrawing from active combat zones remains low.
This ongoing military engagement raises critical questions about accountability and oversight. While the U.S. military plays a crucial role in combating terrorism, the lack of formal declarations of war enables prolonged involvement without clear parameters. Service members continue to operate under ambiguous circumstances, raising concerns about the long-term implications of these decisions for U.S. foreign policy and national security.
As America continues to navigate these complex conflicts, the experiences of its service members and the strategic decisions made by military and political leaders deserve greater visibility and engagement from the public. The wars may not dominate headlines as they once did, but they have not ceased, and their consequences will shape the future for years to come.
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