Turkey-Backed Forces Capture Manbij from US-Backed SDF in Syria

Turkey-supported Syrian opposition groups have taken over Manbij from US-aligned SDF forces following intense fighting. This shift coincides with an announcement from Syrian rebels claiming control over Damascus and the ouster of President Assad, signifying a change in the conflict’s landscape.

On December 9, 2024, a Turkish security source reported that Turkey-backed Syrian opposition groups have successfully seized control of the northern Syrian town of Manbij. This development follows intense clashes with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who had previously held the area. The fighting in Manbij coincides with a significant announcement from Syrian rebels in the south, who declared the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad after taking control of Damascus.

The conflict in Syria has seen various factions vying for control over key territories, with foreign support playing a critical role. The Syrian Democratic Forces, primarily composed of Kurdish fighters and backed by the United States, have been prominent in the fight against the Islamic State and have held strategic locations, including Manbij. The involvement of Turkey and its support for Syrian opposition groups complicates the dynamics, particularly as Turkey views the Kurdish forces as a threat. This incident reflects ongoing tensions and shifts in control during the protracted Syrian conflict.

The takeover of Manbij by Turkey-backed opposition forces marks a significant shift in the control dynamics within northern Syria. It highlights ongoing tensions between various factions in the region, particularly between those backed by the US and those receiving Turkish support. As these developments continue to unfold, the broader implications for the future of Syria and the surrounding regions remain to be seen.

Original Source: www.jpost.com