SDF-Held Areas in Eastern Syria on Track to Become Permanent U.S. Base
Recent developments in eastern Syria indicate that areas under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are gradually turning into a permanent base for U.S. military presence.
According to Middle East News and Al-Akhbar, as Turkey intensifies attacks on SDF positions in northern and eastern Syria, Washington has expanded its military cooperation with the group. This cooperation includes strengthening bases, conducting joint exercises, and continuing operations against remnants of Daesh (ISIS) in Raqqa and Hasakah provinces.
This new U.S. approach is seen as a departure from earlier plans for a gradual withdrawal from Syria. Analysts say the latest moves could lead to a model resembling America’s long-term presence in Iraq’s Kurdistan region.
In recent days, Turkey has once again targeted SDF positions around the Tishrin Dam, northeastern Aleppo, Suluk, and Ras al-Ain with air and artillery strikes. Local sources reported that these attacks were accompanied by operations carried out by Turkey-backed “Syrian National Army” groups, aimed at pressuring the SDF to speed up the implementation of the March 10 agreement.
Despite the pressure, sources stressed that Washington has not given Turkey the green light for a large-scale offensive. Instead, the U.S. has reaffirmed its partnership with Kurdish forces while reinforcing its bases in Hasakah with new equipment.
A source quoted by Al-Akhbar said that the resurgence of ISIS activity and unrest in Sweida and coastal provinces have pushed U.S. political circles closer to the positions of the military establishment, with Washington now clearly signaling a commitment to maintaining its alliance with the SDF.
Analysts warn that this trajectory is heightening concerns in both Turkey and Damascus, and could soon usher eastern Syria into a new phase of tensions and geopolitical rivalry.
