The Syrian Army has taken control of large areas in northeast Syria after a rapid advance against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The developments have weakened Kurdish self-rule in the region and strengthened the position of Damascus and neighbouring Turkey.
Government forces moved quickly after talks on integrating the SDF into the Syrian Army collapsed. Within days, Syrian troops secured territory previously held by the Kurdish-led alliance. Analysts say the shift followed a change in US policy.
Syria expert Fabrice Balanche of Lyon University said American approval played a decisive role. He stated that Washington’s decision allowed President Ahmed al-Sharaa to launch the operation.
US policy shift and regional impact
The SDF had relied on US backing during the campaign against Islamic State. As the group lost territory and influence, Washington reassessed its role. Analysts say the US viewed its cooperation with the SDF as temporary rather than strategic.
As American support ended, several Arab tribes left the Kurdish-led alliance and aligned with Damascus. This shift allowed Syrian forces to advance rapidly in Arab-majority areas. Government troops also took control of several prisons holding Islamic State members, with reports that hundreds escaped.
Concerns over security led Washington to help broker a ceasefire. Under the agreement, SDF units are expected to disband and merge into Syrian government forces. Turkey supports this outcome.
Turkey’s role and kurdish response
Turkey has backed the Syrian government’s advance. Ankara accuses Kurdish factions within the SDF of links to the PKK, which Turkey considers a terrorist organisation. Turkish officials have held recent meetings in Syria, signalling close coordination.
The offensive has sparked protests among Turkey’s Kurdish population. These demonstrations coincided with stalled talks between the Turkish government, the pro-Kurdish Dem Party, and the PKK. Although the PKK announced a ceasefire last year, negotiations have since slowed.
Analysts warn that events in Syria could weaken confidence in the peace process. They also note rising risks of violence in northeast Syria, where tribal tensions remain high after years of conflict.
