Syrian Army Strengthens Control in Northern Regions, Displacing Kurdish Forces
Syria’s ongoing conflict has taken a significant turn as the Syrian army has regained control over substantial territories in the north, effectively displacing Kurdish forces that had maintained a degree of autonomy for over a decade. The recent advancements primarily focus on key strategic locations, including the city of Tabqa and its pivotal dam, which plays a crucial role in the region’s water and power supply.
Recent Developments in Northern Syria
On a notable Saturday, state media reported the Syrian army had successfully taken over Tabqa and the strategically important Freedom Dam near the city of Raqaa. This move occurred despite calls from the United States for a halt to military operations in the area. Sources indicate that the Syrian government is pushing to solidify its authority over previously Kurdish-controlled regions, especially after President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s recent decree recognizing Kurdish as a national language, thereby granting official acknowledgment to the minority group.
This intensified military action follows the stagnation of a March 2025 agreement aimed at integrating Kurdish forces into Syrian state structures. As a result, tensions have escalated, especially after clashes erupted last week, leading to the Syrian army’s successful expulsion of Kurdish fighters from various neighborhoods in Aleppo and advancing eastward towards Tabqa.
Tensions Between Syrian Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)
In the lead-up to these skirmishes, the Syrian troops had amassed around a cluster of villages west of the Euphrates River. They demanded that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) redeploy their forces across the river. Despite a tactical withdrawal by SDF fighters on Saturday, citing a gesture of goodwill, the situation remained explosive as Syrian troops continued to advance, allegedly violating the previous agreements by pushing into areas not covered by the deal.
The SDF accused the Syrian forces of betraying the agreement, escalating confrontations and further complicating the fragile situation. Syrian media reported that Kurdish-led forces had resorted to destroying critical infrastructure, including two main bridges over the Euphrates in the Raqa region, further heightening tensions.
International Reactions and the Call for De-escalation
Amid these developments, international figures such as US military commander Brad Cooper and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the necessity for a ceasefire and de-escalation. They urged both parties to refrain from further military actions, particularly in regions vital to controlling local oil and gas resources.
The complex scenario has prompted a recalibration of US policy in Syria, which previously favored the Kurdish-led SDF in their fight against the Islamic State. However, the U.S. has recently extended support towards President al-Sharaa’s government as it aims to reunify the fractured nation post-conflict.
Local Response and Implications for the Future
In towns like Deir Hafer, where the SDF withdrew, residents celebrated the arrival of Syrian troops, marking a bittersweet relief amid the turmoil. Local sentiments reflect a desire for stability after years of devastation, with residents like Hussein al-Khalaf expressing fatigue from ongoing violence.
Meanwhile, Kurdish authorities still maintain control over Arab-majority regions rich in oil and gas fields, raising concerns among local Arab leaders who have expressed readiness to resist the Kurdish presence if directed by Syrian authorities. The potential for sectarian violence remains a pressing concern, particularly given the historical context of earlier violent clashes in 2025 that resulted in significant casualties among minority groups.
Conclusion
The situation in Northern Syria remains fluid, with the Syrian army aiming to consolidate its control amid opposition from Kurdish forces. As both parties trade blame for escalating violence, the international community watches closely, advocating for diplomatic resolutions to this longstanding conflict. The continuing political maneuvers, local reactions, and international pressures will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of Syria.
For more details on the recent dynamics between Syrian forces and Kurdish groups, see Syrian forces expel Kurdish fighters as US strikes Islamic State targets.
