Syrian Democratic Forces announce dissolution

Syria’s Democratic Forces, the multi‑ethnic coalition that spearheaded the campaign against the Islamic State, announced on Friday that it will formally dissolve its armed units. The group, which has operated primarily in the country’s north‑eastern regions with support from the United States and its allies, issued a statement saying the decision reflects “the evolving political and security landscape” and a shift toward civilian governance structures.

The disbandment marks the end of a force that, since 2014, captured key territories from ISIL and helped stabilize large swaths of Kurdish‑controlled areas. Analysts note that the move could create a security vacuum amid ongoing Turkish incursions and the gradual withdrawal of U.S. troops, potentially reshaping power dynamics among local militias, the Syrian government and regional actors.