"A sudden withdrawal from Syria would send a frightening message unless there is an explanation that comes with it that makes everybody think 'ah, yes, that's why,'" Abdul Rhaman said in remarks at the US Institute of Peace. "Right now, we are just hearing alarming things without that explanation."
The remarks come in the wake of US President Donald Trump's statement last Thursday that the United States would leave Syria "very soon" and let other countries "take care of" the situation. However, US media has reported the Defense Department has no plans withdraw troops and may send additional to northern Syria.
READ MORE: US Mulled Sending More Troops to Syria Before Trump's Call to Leave — Reports
According to Rhaman, the United States has a role to play in Syria, but should not act alone. The US-led coalition also has a role to play, she added.
In December, the Defense Department said that about 2,000 US troops were fighting the Daesh terror group in Syria.
READ MORE: Why Trump's Pledge to Pull Out of Syria as Unreal as Macron's Vow to Step In
*Daesh, also known as ISIL/ISIS/IS, a terrorist group banned in Russia and many other countries
