The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launched a counteroffensive against the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) on Tuesday. Their goal is to reclaim key areas near Syria’s northern border with Turkey, where clashes have intensified since Bashar al-Assad’s regime fell earlier this month.
The SNA recently captured Manbij, a strategic city, along with nearby areas, intensifying the weeks-long battles in northern Syria. As Syria navigates its political future after over a decade of conflict and economic devastation, the stakes in these battles remain high.
Turkey’s Influence and SDF’s Counterattack
Ruken Jamal, spokesperson for the Women’s Protection Unit (YPJ), confirmed that SDF fighters are just over seven miles from Manbij’s center. She accused Turkey of using the SNA to weaken Kurdish influence during ongoing negotiations in Damascus about Syria’s future.
Jamal emphasized that Turkey’s attacks aim to distract and exclude the SDF from these crucial discussions. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that since the SNA offensive began, dozens of fighters from both sides have been killed.
Turkey considers the SDF an affiliate of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group it deems a terrorist organization. Turkish forces and jets have long targeted SDF positions, seeking to establish a buffer zone along the border.
Strategic Battles Amid Power Shifts
SDF spokesperson Farhad Shami announced that Kurdish-led forces pushed back rebels near the Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates River, a vital source of hydroelectric power. Overnight, the SDF reclaimed four villages near the dam, according to the war monitor.
Meanwhile, Turkish jets bombed Kobani, a key border town, as Ankara maintains its hardline stance on the Kurdish forces despite Syria’s shifting political landscape. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reaffirmed Turkey’s position during talks with Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa.
SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi expressed concerns over a possible Islamic State (IS) resurgence, warning that ongoing clashes could hinder operations against the group’s sleeper cells. He highlighted the growing risks posed by Syria’s political vacuum and escalating violence.