The collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and increased attacks on the U.S.-aligned Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have fueled concerns about a potential resurgence of ISIS. These developments pose a significant challenge for the incoming Trump administration.
Displaced Syrian Kurds flee areas on the outskirts of Aleppo after Islamist-led rebels seized control. (RAMI AL SAYED/AFP via Getty Images)
The SDF reported five of its soldiers were killed in attacks by Turkish-backed forces in northern Syria. This follows the apparent breakdown of a U.S.-brokered cease-fire agreement. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressed concern about the potential return of ISIS, emphasizing the group's tendency to exploit power vacuums in ungoverned areas.
A funeral is held for SDF fighters killed in clashes with Turkish-backed factions. (DELIL SOULEIMAN/AFP via Getty Images)
The U.S. faces the complex challenge of balancing its fight against ISIS alongside the SDF with its relationship with Turkey, a NATO ally that views the SDF as a terrorist organization. Experts warn that the current situation presents a prime opportunity for Turkey to target the SDF, potentially further destabilizing the region and creating an environment conducive to ISIS expansion.
While the Biden administration recently conducted strikes against ISIS targets, the fall of Damascus and the takeover of other Syrian cities by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), supported by the Turkey-backed Syrian National Army (SNA), further complicates the situation. Reports indicate ISIS has acquired weapons from former Syrian military depots amid the chaos.
US forces provide training to members of the YPG/SDF. (Hedil Amir/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
The SDF has also conducted operations against ISIS, reportedly capturing several terrorists and suspected collaborators near Raqqa. The involvement of the international coalition in this operation is yet to be confirmed by CENTCOM. As Turkish-backed forces escalate attacks on the SDF, concerns are growing about the potential for a renewed ISIS resurgence. This complex dynamic poses a significant challenge for the incoming Trump administration, requiring a delicate balancing act between counterterrorism efforts and maintaining relationships with key allies.
A joint U.S.-Kurdish patrol in northeastern Syria. (Reuters/Orhan Qereman)
The Trump-Vance Transition team stated they are monitoring the situation and President Trump is committed to addressing threats to peace and stability in the Middle East.
