Syrian Democratic Forces

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are a Kurdish-led militia that has controlled territory in northeastern Syria. They have been a key U.S. ally in the fight against ISIS. Recent fighting between the SDF and the Syrian government forces, following a power seizure by rebel forces led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, has led to a significant shift in the region. After a four-day ceasefire, the SDF has agreed to integrate with the Syrian army. This agreement comes amid mounting pressure and a looming ceasefire deadline. The integration is happening as the U.S. military is transferring ISIS detainees from SDF-controlled prisons to Iraq due to security concerns and the volatile situation following a prison break. The U.S. sees a unified Syria as being in its interest. The SDF's integration marks a major development in the Syrian conflict, potentially reshaping the balance of power and raising concerns about the resurgence of ISIS and the future of Kurdish autonomy in the region.