The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launched a counter-offensive to reclaim areas near Syria’s northern border with Turkey. Clashes erupted with the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA), which had seized Manbij and its surrounding territories.
Since Bashar al-Assad’s regime fell earlier this month, tensions between the SDF and the SNA have escalated dramatically. The fighting has left dozens dead from both sides, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Turkey’s Role and Regional Dynamics
Ankara sees the SDF as an affiliate of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group it designates as a terrorist organisation. Turkish-backed forces and jets have targeted SDF strongholds, aiming to establish a buffer zone along the border.
The SDF accused Turkey of using these attacks to disrupt their role in Syria’s post-Assad negotiations. “Turkey is trying to exclude us from discussions in Damascus,” said Ruken Jamal, a spokesperson for the Women’s Protection Unit (YPJ) under the SDF.
Despite the Assad regime’s collapse, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan maintained a firm stance against the Kurdish-led group. He warned of lawlessness caused by the PKK and affiliated groups across the region.
SDF Gains Ground Amid Power Struggles
The SDF reported reclaiming four villages near the strategic Tishrin Dam after intense overnight clashes. They also destroyed a tank belonging to SNA forces southeast of Manbij.
However, Turkish airstrikes have targeted key locations, including the town of Kobani, further complicating the SDF’s operations. SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi expressed concerns about the growing power vacuum, which could enable an Islamic State resurgence.
The SDF, supported by Washington, remains a critical force against IS sleeper cells. However, the ongoing conflict and regional power plays risk undermining Syria’s fragile stability.