Syrian Army Advances on SDF Stronghold Raqqa: Latest Conflict Update
The Syrian Army has intensified its operations, making significant advances towards Raqqa, a stronghold of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Recent actions include the capture of the strategic city of Tabqa and its military airport bordering the Euphrates River, following a rapid offensive. The Euphrates Dam, also known as the Tabqa Dam, located 50 kilometers west of Raqqa, was seized after intense clashes with SDF fighters.
Current Syrian Army Advances on SDF Stronghold Raqqa
Government forces have gathered a substantial amount of military equipment in the Raqqa governorate, which has been under SDF control since 2015. On January 6, fighting erupted between the Syrian Army and SDF forces in Aleppo, following stalled talks aimed at integrating Kurdish fighters into Syria’s national army.
Territorial Gains and Strategic Control
Recent developments show that the Syrian Army took control of Tabqa and the adjacent Euphrates Dam, which is the largest in the country. This offensive has raised questions about the future stability in northern Syria.
- Tabqa: 40 km west of Raqqa
- Euphrates Dam: Largest dam in Syria
- Raqqa control: Significant for its oil and gasfields
In addition to military gains, government-allied groups have reportedly occupied the Asayish headquarters in Markada, alongside capturing multiple oil and gas fields in Deir Az Zor province. This includes the Jafra and Conoco fields, which are close to Iraq.
International Reactions and Ongoing Conflicts
As tensions escalate, the SDF accused the Syrian government of violating withdrawal agreements, claiming attacks on multiple fronts have resumed. A report indicated that the Syrian Ministry of Interior has secured areas recently captured by government forces.
With ongoing clashes, the Deir Az Zor governorate has temporarily closed public institutions for safety reasons. Video evidence has surfaced showing celebrations in Hajin and al-Shuhayl following the SDF’s withdrawal from some areas.
The Broader Implications for Syria
The conflict has sparked fears regarding the security of Raqqa, given the presence of numerous ISIS detainees within the city. The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria expressed concerns about the Syrian Army’s offensive potentially destabilizing the region further.
In a significant political move, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently recognized Kurdish as a national language. This decree aims to restore citizenship to Kurdish Syrians stripped of their nationality in the past, although the Kurdish administration has expressed that it falls short of meeting their expectations for rights and protections.
Outlook and Future Actions
The ongoing military actions indicate a pivotal moment in the Syrian conflict as the government seeks to expand its control amid an uneasy relationship with the SDF. Analysts suggest that the current dynamic could mark the end of the SDF’s autonomy in northeastern Syria, prompting discussions about the future structure of the region’s governance.
As the situation evolves, it remains crucial for international stakeholders to monitor developments closely to understand the long-term implications for Syria’s political landscape and the stability of the region.
