- Commander of Syrian Democratic Forces warns of increased ISIS activity in Syria, citing attacks on US bases by Iranian-backed forces as hindrance to efforts to prevent the resurgence of ISIS.
- Spike in ISIS movements observed as a result of recent attacks, making it difficult for US and SDF coalition to effectively combat the terrorist group.
- Concerns raised about potential US withdrawal, with consequences of chaos and exploitation by various actors in the region emphasized. Talks between Iraq and the US about transitioning away from coalition mission could impact US troop presence in Iraq and Syria, raising vulnerability to ISIS threats.
Additional Coverage:
The commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Gen. Mazloum Abdi Kobane, has expressed concern about an increase in ISIS activity in Syria. He mentioned that ISIS is taking advantage of the tensions in the Middle East and that attacks on U.S. bases by Iranian-backed forces have impeded their efforts to prevent the resurgence of ISIS.
In a Zoom briefing with reporters, Kobane stated that there has been a noticeable spike in ISIS movements due to the recent attacks. The SDF and the U.S. are working together in Syria as part of the global coalition to defeat ISIS. However, Iranian-backed groups have targeted U.S. forces at least 168 times since October 17th in Iraq and Syria, making it difficult for the SDF to combat the terrorist group effectively.
Kobane emphasized the importance of the U.S. presence in Syria, stating that if American forces were to withdraw, it would create chaos and leave a gap that various actors would exploit. He revealed that U.S. officials have reassured him that there are no immediate plans for a withdrawal from Syria.
Meanwhile, Iraq has begun discussions with the U.S. about transitioning away from the coalition mission towards a bilateral security mission. This transition could potentially involve a reduction in the number of U.S. troops in Iraq. The talks were anticipated since August but have gained significance due to Iraq’s concerns over retaliatory airstrikes carried out by the U.S. within its borders.
Gen. Kobane expressed his worries about the link between the U.S. presence in Iraq and Syria. He believed that a withdrawal from Iraq would also mean a withdrawal from Syria, which would make the SDF more vulnerable to ISIS and other threats.
These developments highlight the complexities and challenges faced by the U.S. and its allies in the region as they strive to maintain stability and combat terrorism in Syria and Iraq.