The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have raised the three-starred Syrian opposition flag in areas under their control in northeastern Syria, signaling a potential shift in strategy and alignment with the new administration in Damascus. The move, announced by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), was described as a gesture of "unity and national identity" as the region navigates a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.

Intensifying Turkish Military Operations

Turkey’s military, along with its allied "Fajr al-Hurriya" militias, has intensified attacks on key Syrian cities, including Manbij and Raqqa, as well as vital infrastructure like the Tishreen Dam. Turkish airstrikes and artillery bombardments have forced SDF-backed forces to withdraw from Manbij, and clashes are ongoing near the dam.

Siyamend Ali, head of the YPG press office, described the situation as critical. "The Turkish state is deploying its full military arsenal, targeting bridges and the dam with relentless airstrikes," he said, warning that a collapse of the Tishreen Dam could endanger the lives of one million people downstream.

Aid organizations, including the Northeast Syria NGO Forum, have called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, citing the humanitarian and environmental dangers posed by the strikes on key infrastructure.

Shift Toward Collaboration with Damascus

In a strategic move, the SDF leadership has signaled a willingness to work with the new Damascus government, now under the control of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). SDF officials revealed that preliminary understandings with HTS have been facilitated through U.S. mediation, though direct negotiations have yet to take place.

Siyamend Ali affirmed the SDF's new approach, stating, "Today, we extend our hand to the Damascus government to unite and form a new government that serves all Syrians." This collaboration is seen as an effort to stabilize the region and create a more inclusive administrative framework.

Regional and International Reactions

Turkey's regional ambitions have drawn international attention, with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warning against external actors, including Turkey and Israel, exploiting Syria’s transitional period for strategic gains. The United Nations has echoed these concerns, urging respect for Syria’s sovereignty and the protection of civilian lives.

Adding to the geopolitical complexity, Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin's visit to Damascus on Thursday has fueled speculation about Turkey’s objectives in the region. Observers see Turkey's actions as part of a broader strategy to expand its influence in northern Syria.

Critical Moment for Syria’s Future

The fall of Assad’s regime has left a political vacuum, prompting regional powers to position themselves for greater control. SDF spokesperson Siyamend Ali warned, “Turkey is using this opportunity to expand its control and weaken the SDF and AANES.”

With the potential for large-scale displacement, infrastructure collapse, and ongoing battles for control of strategic locations, the situation in Syria remains fragile. The fate of millions of civilians and the broader stability of the Middle East now hinge on how regional and international actors navigate this pivotal moment in Syria’s history.