Story perspectives

SDF Merges with Syrian Army Amid Territorial Losses

1/21/2026

Center

SDF Joins Army

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are merging into the Syrian army after major territorial losses to Syrian government forces.
The SDF controlled a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Syria during clashes that led to the capture of key areas, including oil fields.
An agreement between Mazloum Abdi (SDF leader) and President Ahmad al-Sharaa outlines SDF fighters joining the national army and returning resources to the government, while offering some local autonomy.

Left

Kurdish Forces Integrated

A deal to integrate Kurdish forces into the Syrian army transfers responsibility for IS-affiliated detainees, including those at Al-Hol camp, to the Syrian government.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) say Damascus-backed factions attacked Shadadi prison, housing thousands of IS prisoners.
The government accuses the Kurds of releasing detainees and seeks to secure facilities.
The Kurdish administration faces criticism for using detainees to pressure the international community for foreign national repatriation.

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SDF Joins Army

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are merging into the Syrian army after major territorial losses to Syrian government forces.
The SDF controlled a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Syria during clashes that led to the capture of key areas, including oil fields.
An agreement between Mazloum Abdi (SDF leader) and President Ahmad al-Sharaa outlines SDF fighters joining the national army and returning resources to the government, while offering some local autonomy.

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