Uncertain Future for Syrian Kurdish Regions

Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Syria faces significant instability, particularly for the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, which is now threatened by Turkish-backed forces and the newly empowered Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which control about a third of the country and have been instrumental in the fight against ISIS, are in a precarious position as they navigate potential integration into a new Syrian army while maintaining their governance structure. Turkey views the SDF and its affiliates as terrorist organizations linked to the PKK, prompting military actions aimed at establishing a 'security corridor' free of Kurdish influence. Reports indicate that the SDF is currently on the defensive, having lost ground to HTS and the Syrian National Army (SNA). Amidst the violence and protests against the interim administration, many Syrians express a desire for peace and cooperation. The uncertain future for the Kurdish regions is compounded by ongoing military tensions and the volatile political landscape in Syria.