Who are the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)?
Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is a mostly Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) dominant military alliance which also has representation from Arab, Assyrian, and other communities. The SDF was created in 2015 and was supported by the United States during the struggle against ISIS. SDF were at the center of recapturing most of north and northeast Syria from ISIS territory, such as Raqqa, which was previously ISIS’s de facto capital.
What Is the Dispute All About?
Turkey sees the YPG as the pillar of the SDF being affiliated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a terror group it believes. Turkey has conducted several cross-border operations in northern Syria with the objective of weakening the SDF.
The Syrian Government perceives the SDF’s self-governance as a threat to state sovereignty. Damascus wants to reabsorb SDF-controlled areas into its fold. US and Russia have complicated roles, with the US providing military backing to the SDF, and Russia frequently supporting Damascus in talks.
Recent Developments
- Syrian Government and SDF Agree on Integration (March 2025)
The SDF struck a historic deal with the Syrian government whereby the SDF would be incorporated into the Syrian Army and disband its independent operations. The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), the ruling entity dominated by the SDF, would be transformed into Syrian state institutions.
Syrian regime will assume borders, public institutions, and oil resources in the northeast. The rights of Kurdish and other minorities will be recognized in the political process.
- Turkish Reaction and Regional Response
Turkey has greeted the deal warily, insisting on transparency about the YPG’s future. US, though a supporter of the SDF, has not been against the agreement, indicating a change in Syria priorities. Russia acted as a mediator between the parties, with a preference for Syria’s sovereignty.
What This Means for the Future
End of SDF autonomy: The agreement effectively terminates the autonomous Kurdish-led government, subjecting it to Syrian government control. Prospective stability but also uncertainty, though this deal diminishes confrontation between the SDF and Damascus, it fuels uncertainty regarding Kurdish rights and what Turkey will do next.
Diminished US presence in Syria: With the SDF being assimilated into Syria’s army, US power in Syria could fall, to the advantage of Russia and Iran.
This growth is a watershed moment for Syria’s post-war environment, but its success is contingent upon precise execution and resolving tensions with Turkey.
