Description: The Syrian Democratic Forces have reported intensified clashes with several Turkish – backed armed groups in the northeastern parts of Syria, where territorial grapples have been going on since the ousting of ex – President Bashar al – Assad. The Turkish – backed armed groups have reportedly used drones and aerial attacks which were countered by a larger ground offensive by the SDF in the Tishreen Dam and the Deir Hafer front. SDF is still largely in control of the northeastern parts of Syria where they continue fighting against Turkish armed groups supported to topple senior military structures within the SDF linked to PKK.
Impact: With in – country armed clashes intensifying daily, Syria’s stability and governance restructuring are still unrealistic and speculative. Turkey has the largest regional stake as it aims to exploit the unstable military situation on the ground and neutralize the PKK with whom it has been in an armed conflict for over 40 years. The SDF on the other hand show a stable military presence and organization and with US – backing is looking to establish the country’s post – Assad Syrian independent military. Armed conflicts are expected to rise as uncertainty fuels the conflict to last even further and add to the already unstable Middle Eastern region.