Aleppo – December 30, 2024

Intense fighting continues to engulf northern and northeastern Syria as hostilities between the pro-Türkiye Free Syrian Army (FSA) and the US-backed Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) escalate. The conflict underscores the ongoing instability in the region and the geopolitical complexities involving local and international actors.

Renewed Fighting Over Manbij

In Aleppo’s eastern countryside, particularly near Manbij, clashes have intensified as the SDF attempts to regain control of the strategic town. Earlier this month, the SDF lost Manbij to factions backed by Türkiye, marking a significant setback for the Kurdish forces.

Reports indicate that Turkish drones targeted SDF positions near the Tishrin Dam, a critical infrastructure site. Artillery and rocket exchanges between the two factions have claimed lives on both sides. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported six FSA and three SDF fighters killed in the latest violence.

Civilian Toll and Rising Casualties

The Observatory noted that 18 days of clashes have left at least 152 people dead, including both combatants and civilians. The fighting has further destabilized the region, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.

Internal Strife Among Factions

In northeastern Syria, tensions are brewing within the ranks of Türkiye-backed factions. Members of the Peace Spring Operation factions, originally from areas now controlled by the Syrian regime, are seeking to return home. However, faction leaders are reportedly detaining fighters attempting to leave, further complicating the dynamics on the ground.

US-Led Coalition Strengthens Presence

Amid the violence, the US-led anti-ISIS coalition and the SDF conducted joint military exercises in Hasakeh’s Qasrak base. Fighters were trained in heavy weaponry and combat readiness, signaling continued US support for the SDF despite Türkiye’s objections.

In a show of military reinforcement, the coalition recently dispatched 50 trucks carrying armored vehicles and logistical equipment from Iraq’s Kurdistan Region through the al-Walid crossing. These supplies were directed to coalition bases in northern and eastern Syria, bolstering their capacity in the region.

Ankara’s Position and Geopolitical Tensions

Türkiye remains resolute in its stance against the SDF, particularly the People’s Protection Units (YPG), the dominant faction within the group. Ankara considers the YPG an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which it deems a terrorist organization. This classification has led to ongoing friction between Türkiye and the United States, which views the YPG as a critical ally in the fight against ISIS.

Outlook

As clashes persist, the northern Syrian theater reflects the entangled interests of local factions and international powers. With the US continuing to back the SDF and Türkiye deepening its involvement through allied factions, the region remains on edge, with no clear resolution in sight.