Concerns have been raised about a potential resurgence of the Islamic State in Syria following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have been aligned with the United States, are facing increased attacks from Turkish-backed forces. President-elect Donald Trump may have to confront the extremist group once again as the SDF may have to split their focus between ISIS and threats from Turkey.
A cease-fire agreement brokered by the Biden administration appeared to have collapsed, leading to further attacks on the SDF by Turkish-backed forces. The U.S. and the SDF are working to counter ISIS, with national security advisor Jake Sullivan expressing concern about the group’s return. He emphasized the importance of supporting the SDF to keep ISIS in check, as the power struggles in Syria have created ungoverned areas where the extremist group can gain a foothold.
The United States has been fighting ISIS in Syria with the help of the Kurdish coalition forces, despite Turkey viewing the SDF as a terrorist network allied with the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). With the fall of the Assad regime and pressure from Turkish proxies, there are valid concerns about the expansion of ISIS. Turkey has an opportunity to destroy the SDF and is expected to increase attacks against the group, potentially leading to a rise in ISIS activity in the region.
The Biden administration has escalated its campaign against ISIS, conducting significant strikes on known ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps. The recent killing of ISIS leader Abu Yusif in eastern Syria was a significant development in the ongoing efforts to combat the extremist group. The SDF has also been actively working to capture ISIS terrorists and suspected collaborators to prevent uprisings in areas previously controlled by the group.
As the SDF faces increased attacks from Turkey-backed forces, there is a concern that their operational abilities could be compromised, making it challenging for the incoming Trump administration to prevent another resurgence of ISIS. The U.S. will need to navigate its relations with Turkey while ensuring stability in the region. President Trump has expressed a commitment to diminishing threats to peace and stability in the Middle East and protecting Americans from any potential threats emanating from the region.
In conclusion, the situation in Syria remains volatile, with the threat of a resurgence of ISIS looming large following the fall of the Assad regime and increased attacks on the SDF by Turkey-backed forces. The incoming Trump administration will need to address the complex dynamics in the region while preventing a resurgence of the extremist group. Cooperation between the U.S. and the SDF will be crucial in countering ISIS and maintaining stability in Syria.
