In northeast Syria, a Kurdish-led group called the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced that they have agreed to a ceasefire with Turkish-backed fighters in the city of Manbij. This agreement comes after a significant rise in violence following the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government. The U.S. helped mediate this ceasefire, as confirmed by SDF leader Mazloum Abdi.
Abdi stated that the SDF’s military team in Manbij will pull out soon. He emphasized the group’s aim is to establish peace throughout Syria and begin a political process for the country’s future. Since the fighting started, over 200 combatants have lost their lives in Manbij, which is mostly populated by Arab people.
Last week, Abdi mentioned that the United Nations has been in touch with them to help find a peaceful solution for Syria. The SDF previously played a key role in defeating the Islamic State militants in 2019.
Recently, U.S. military General Michael Kurilla visited the American bases in Syria, highlighting the importance of U.S. support for the SDF.
In related news, pro-Turkey fighters recently took control of Tal Rifaat, a key area previously held by Kurdish forces. Turkey considers the Kurdish fighters, especially the YPG (who are part of the SDF), to be linked to a group they have banned, called the PKK.
As the situation unfolds, it has been reported that a group known as Hayat Tahrir Al Sham has taken control in Damascus, forcing Assad to seek safety in Russia while rebels take over the government.
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