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Kurds Face Uncertain Future as U.S. Abandons SDF

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) face a pivotal moment after Syrian government gains.
U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack says the SDF's role as the primary anti-ISIS partner has ended.
The SDF will integrate into state structures under President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government.
Many Kurds feel abandoned by the United States, fearing loss of autonomy amid rising tensions.

History

Historical Context

The Syrian Civil War, ignited on March 15, 2011, by protests against President Bashar al-Assad, led to the rise of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in 2015, which fought ISIS with U.S. support exceeding $1 billion. As the Assad regime regains territory, the SDF's potential integration into state structures raises concerns for Kurdish autonomy, reflecting ongoing struggles for Kurdish rights in the region.

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Story summary

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) face a pivotal moment after Syrian government gains.
U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack says the SDF's role as the primary anti-ISIS partner has ended.
The SDF will integrate into state structures under President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government.
Many Kurds feel abandoned by the United States, fearing loss of autonomy amid rising tensions.

1 / 2