Syrian Opposition Rebels Capture Deir Al-Zour City From US-backed Forces

The rebels who toppled Syrian President Bashar Assad have driven the US-backed Kurdish fighters out of the eastern city of Deir al-Zour, days after government forces abandoned it. Syria's rebel military command posted telegram videos showing the military base under the control of the rebels and people on the streets in the city centre. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces had only held the city for a few days, replacing the Syrian government forces. The Kurds have long counted on U.S. aid in the face of such challenges. Around 900 American troops are in eastern Syria, where they partner with Kurdish forces to prevent an Islamic State resurgence. But the future of that mission will be thrown into doubt under President-elect Donald Trump, who has long been skeptical about U.S. involvement in Syria.