The United States has ended its military support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), its primary local partner in the fight against ISIS for nearly a decade. Washington now intends to support the authorities in Syria as being responsible for the country’s security, marking a significant shift in U.S. strategy in the Middle East.
A Shift in U.S. Strategy
According to U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack, the original purpose of the SDF – to serve as the main ground force against ISIS – has largely been fulfilled. Barrack stated that Damascus is now “willing and positioned to assume security responsibilities,” including the custody of detention centers and camps holding thousands of suspected ISIS fighters and their families.
This decision comes as the U.S. recognizes a functioning Syrian state with which to collaborate, a condition that did not exist during the height of the conflict against ISIS. The current Syrian government, led by interim President Ahmed al Sharaa, has joined the coalition against jihadism, signaling a shift towards the West and cooperation with the United States.
Integration of Kurdish Forces
Washington is now pushing for the integration of the Kurdish-Arab forces of the SDF into the structures of the Syrian state. The U.S. is “actively facilitating this transition” in coordination with Damascus and SDF leaders, with the goal of incorporating SDF fighters into the Syrian Army and transferring strategic infrastructure like prisons and camps.
A fragile ceasefire was agreed upon this week between the Syrian government and the SDF, following the deployment of Syrian military reinforcements to Hasaké, a Kurdish stronghold in northeastern Syria. This agreement has opened the door to new negotiations to finalize the integration of Kurdish civil and military institutions into the Syrian state, though previous talks have stalled due to fundamental disagreements.
What Happens Next?
The success of this transition hinges on continued negotiations between the SDF, the Syrian government, and the United States. It is likely that further compromises will be needed from all parties to address concerns about autonomy, security guarantees, and the future status of Kurdish communities. If integration efforts falter, a prolonged period of instability could result, potentially creating opportunities for extremist groups to re-emerge. The SDF currently faces a territorial rollback and loss of control over key areas, including the Al Hol camp, which houses tens of thousands of individuals linked to ISIS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the U.S. to end its support for the SDF?
According to U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack, the original purpose of the SDF – to fight ISIS – has largely been achieved, and a functioning Syrian state now exists with which the U.S. can collaborate on security matters.
What is the U.S. hoping to achieve by supporting the Syrian government?
The U.S. aims to foster a unified Syrian state capable of maintaining security and preventing the resurgence of extremist groups like ISIS. This includes facilitating the integration of the SDF into the Syrian army and transferring control of detention facilities.
What are the potential risks associated with this shift in U.S. policy?
A prolonged separation of Kurdish forces could lead to instability and potentially allow extremist groups to regain a foothold. Successful integration requires addressing fundamental disagreements and providing security guarantees to all parties involved.
How will this change in U.S. policy impact the long-term stability of Syria and the region?
