Syria Joins Global Coalition Against ISIS: A New Chapter in Regional Security

On February 9, 2026, a significant meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking Syria's formal participation as the coalition's 90th member. This meeting included Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack, who emphasized the importance of Syria's involvement in the ongoing fight against ISIS. The coalition aims to provide military support, disrupt the flow of foreign fighters, and enhance regional security.

The Jerusalem PostThe Jerusalem PostFDD's Long War JournalBarrack: Syria’s role in Anti-ISIS Coalition a “new chapter” in collective securitySyria takes part in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting in RiyadhSaudi Arabia backs Syria’s stability efforts, welcomes role in anti-ISIS coalitionThe National NewsThe New Arab

The meeting followed a January 29 agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), allowing the government to deploy forces in northeastern Syria, previously controlled by the SDF. This transition is seen as a pivotal step in consolidating efforts against ISIS, with the coalition expressing readiness to support Syrian and Iraqi initiatives.

FDD's Long War JournalThe National NewsThe Jerusalem PostThe New ArabBarrack: Syria’s role in Anti-ISIS Coalition a “new chapter” in collective securitySaudi Arabia backs Syria’s stability efforts, welcomes role in anti-ISIS coalitionThe Jerusalem PostSyria takes part in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting in Riyadh

Syria's entry into the coalition comes after years of isolation and conflict, with the SDF having been the primary force against ISIS in the region. The SDF has reportedly lost around 12,000 fighters in the battle against ISIS, with the coalition now looking to Syria to assume a leadership role in counter-ISIS operations. The joint statement from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia highlighted Syria's commitment to leading national counter-ISIS efforts and integrating the SDF into state structures.

The National NewsThe Jerusalem PostFDD's Long War JournalBarrack: Syria’s role in Anti-ISIS Coalition a “new chapter” in collective securityThe Jerusalem PostThe New ArabSaudi Arabia backs Syria’s stability efforts, welcomes role in anti-ISIS coalitionSyria takes part in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting in Riyadh

The joint statement from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia noted, "Participants welcomed the Syrian government as the 90th member of the Defeat ISIS coalition," and underscored their readiness to work closely with Syria. Barrack described Syria's participation as "a new chapter in collective security," emphasizing regional solutions and shared responsibility.

Barrack: Syria’s role in Anti-ISIS Coalition a “new chapter” in collective securityFDD's Long War JournalThe Jerusalem PostThe National NewsThe Jerusalem PostSaudi Arabia backs Syria’s stability efforts, welcomes role in anti-ISIS coalitionThe New ArabSyria takes part in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting in Riyadh

Al-Shaibani characterized the discussions with Saudi officials as "constructive and fruitful," indicating a mutual desire to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance regional stability. He stated, "Supporting Syria at this stage is a shared responsibility between regional and international countries."

The New Arab

Despite the optimistic outlook from coalition members, concerns persist regarding the humanitarian situation in areas like Kobani, which remains under a severe humanitarian siege. Reports indicate that residents face critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, raising questions about the effectiveness of the coalition's efforts on the ground.

FDD's Long War Journal

The coalition's immediate priorities include the transfer and safeguarding of ISIS detainees, coordination with Iraq and Syria on future operations, and the reintegration of families from displacement camps. The coalition is also focused on ensuring that countries take responsibility for their nationals detained in Iraq and Syria.

The Jerusalem PostThe National NewsThe New ArabBarrack: Syria’s role in Anti-ISIS Coalition a “new chapter” in collective securityFDD's Long War JournalSaudi Arabia backs Syria’s stability efforts, welcomes role in anti-ISIS coalitionThe Jerusalem PostSyria takes part in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting in Riyadh

As Syria assumes a more prominent role in the coalition, the international community will be closely monitoring the developments in the region, particularly the integration of the SDF and the humanitarian conditions in areas affected by the ongoing conflict.

FDD's Long War Journal