The United States is preparing to withdraw its troops from Syria, US media reported Wednesday, a major move that throws into question America's role in the region.

Members of the Maghawir al-Thawra Syrian opposition group receive firearms training from U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers at the al-Tanf military outpost in southern Syria on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018. (Photo: AP)

A US defense official told CNN the US was planning a "full" and "rapid" withdrawal of troops. The Wall Street Journal said the withdrawal would be from northeastern Syria.

The Pentagon refused to comment. Currently about 2,000 US forces are in Syria.