Post by : Saif Rahman

After a sudden withdrawal of Kurdish-led forces, Syrian government troops have broadened their control across northern and eastern regions, marking a significant shift in power dynamics. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) retreated from pivotal areas in Raqqa and Deir al-Zor after intense fighting and a ceasefire arrangement, solidifying President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s dominance.

As part of the deal, the SDF, previously a key ally of the U.S. in the region, is set to integrate their fighters into the Syrian military as individuals instead of units. Additionally, the agreement entails ceding control over prisons, vital border crossings, and oil as well as gas infrastructure that had been managed by the SDF for an extended period.

The withdrawal instigated tensions, as both factions exchanged accusations regarding ceasefire breaches. Syrian forces reported escapes of several Islamic State prisoners from a Shaddadi facility, with the government claiming the SDF intentionally released them, while the SDF attributed the loss of control to a government attack. Despite denying any assault on the facility, the Syrian army expressed intentions to recapture the escaped inmates.

This development follows extensive negotiations mediated by the U.S. between Damascus and the SDF. Although Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the terms, Kurdish leaders have voiced their concerns over several provisions, notably the individual integration requirement. Reports indicated that a recent dialogue between SDF commander Mazloum Abdi and President Sharaa had encountered difficulties, with Abdi seeking additional time to confer with his commanders.

Reuters reporters have seen Syrian troops occupying Raqqa, captured from ISIS in 2017, and controlling oil and gas sites in Deir al-Zor, both of which hold substantial economic and strategic value. This shift in control marks a notable transformation in Syria’s territorial landscape since Islamist insurgents ousted President Bashar al-Assad in 2024.

Despite the recent transitions, the SDF continues to maintain authority over most of Hasakah province in the northeast, including the predominantly Kurdish city of Qamishli. The SDF media office reported that they had successfully defended Shaddadi prison from ongoing assaults by government forces, suffering significant casualties. The U.S.-led coalition against ISIS reportedly did not provide intervention despite requests for help from the SDF.

This evolving scenario highlights the precarious security landscape in Syria and the challenges of reconciling various armed entities under centralized governance. As government forces enforce their control, international observers remain cautious of renewed tensions should the SDF and Damascus fail to completely adhere to integration and ceasefire stipulations. The focus on essential infrastructure, including prisons and oil fields, emphasizes the critical strategic and political stakes involved in this ongoing conflict.

#Global News