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Syrian forces reclaim northeast after decade-long Kurdish control
President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government has retaken vast areas in Syria's northeast, previously held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), marking the most significant territorial shift since Islamist rebels ousted Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
Background: A fractured Syria
Before this month's military push, the SDF controlled nearly a third of Syria, governing an autonomous enclave with U.S. backing. The militia alliance emerged as a key partner in the U.S.-led coalition's fight against Islamic State (IS), establishing its own institutions and military structure.
Negotiations between Damascus and the SDF over force integration stalled for months, with the SDF resisting full absorption into state institutions. Analysts suggest the group overestimated its leverage, assuming continued U.S. support.
U.S. shifts stance as Sharaa advances
Under President Donald Trump, Washington pivoted to backing Sharaa, who advocates a unified Syria under central rule. Trump hosted Sharaa at the White House in 2025, lifting long-standing sanctions and signaling no opposition to the recent offensive.
On Sunday, the SDF conceded to a 14-point agreement after rapid territorial losses. Key terms include dissolving SDF units into the Syrian army and interior ministry, transferring oil and gas fields to government control, and handing over IS detention facilities to Damascus.
Ceasefire and concessions
Sharaa's government issued a decree last week aimed at appeasing Kurds, designating Kurdish as a national language, granting citizenship to stateless Kurds, and recognizing Nowruz as a national holiday. Despite these gestures, renewed clashes erupted as government forces advanced toward Kurdish-majority regions.
A temporary ceasefire was announced Tuesday, giving the SDF four days to submit a detailed integration plan for its territories. The pause averted immediate escalation but left Kurdish autonomy aspirations in jeopardy.
Sectarian tensions and Western reactions
Sharaa has pledged to protect Syria's minorities, yet government forces face accusations of atrocities in Alawite and Druze regions. Kurds fear similar treatment, despite Sharaa's assurances.
U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack described the SDF's anti-IS mission as "largely expired," framing Sharaa's government as the best path to stability. The shift has drawn criticism from Kurdish leaders, who view it as a betrayal.
Future challenges
Sharaa's consolidation of power may fuel demands for decentralization, as critics argue his administration favors loyalists. The offensive's success could foreshadow similar moves in Druze-held areas, where autonomy demands persist.
"The greatest opportunity for the Kurds in Syria lies in transitioning under Sharaa's government," Barrack said.
U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack
