The last remaining US troops in Syria departed their Hasakah base on Thursday, concluding a decade-long mission against the Islamic State group. Following this withdrawal, Syrian military forces, primarily Kurdish fighters affiliated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), took control of the Qasrak base, including its airstrip. This handover signifies the Syrian government’s assumption of responsibility for combating terrorism and regional threats on its territory, following President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s victory over Bashar al-Assad and a US-facilitated agreement for Damascus to lead the fight against militant groups. The withdrawal also occurred via Jordan to avoid potential attacks from Iranian-backed paramilitaries in Iraq.
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For over a decade, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) served as the United States’ primary ally in Syria, fighting alongside them against ISIS. However, this alliance is now fracturing as the U.S. shifts its support to President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s new government, a move that is seen by many as a betrayal of the SDF. Without U.S. backing, the SDF has begun to retreat as the government moves to seize control of the strategically important region and its resources. This shift has been facilitated by U.S. negotiations, but many, including some US officials, feel this transition is a significant misstep, paving the way for al-Sharaa, and Turkey’s goals, while disregarding the sacrifices of the SDF.
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The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a key U.S. ally, launched a counter-offensive against Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) forces near the Turkish border following intensified clashes. The SDF aims to retake areas, including Manbij, captured by the SNA earlier this month. This offensive comes amid ongoing Syrian political negotiations, with the SDF accusing Turkey of using the SNA to weaken their influence. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties, and concerns exist regarding a potential ISIS resurgence due to the diverted focus of SDF forces.
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John Q. Hosedrinker