The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by the U.S., are grappling with increasing opposition in Arab-majority areas of northeastern Syria as the emergence of the HTS-led transitional government presents a new challenge to their governance.
The transitional government, seen as a viable alternative by some local groups, threatens to exacerbate tensions in regions already rife with discontent.
Protests and resistance to SDF rule have intensified in Raqqa Province. On December 8, locals in Karamah and Tabqa reportedly seized SDF checkpoints and military headquarters, prompting the SDF to deploy reinforcements and conduct mass arrests in surrounding villages on December 9.
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Despite these measures, armed resistance in these areas remains disorganized and insufficiently equipped to fully displace the SDF.
Similar unrest has been reported in Deir ez Zor Province, where demonstrations erupted on December 9. Protesters called for the HTS-led transitional government to take control of the city. Local media reported that the SDF responded by opening fire on demonstrators, allegedly killing several.
While the HTS-affiliated Fateh Mubin operations room confirmed the presence of its forces in Deir ez Zor City, no direct and significant clashes with the SDF have been verified, indicating that HTS forces have yet to establish full control over the region.
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In addition to internal dissent, the SDF is contending with external attacks from the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). SNA forces have advanced east of Manbij, targeting key infrastructure, including the Qara Qozak Bridge and Tishrin Dam, both critical river crossings within SDF territory.
While the SDF denied losing control over these sites, opposition media claimed that the SNA successfully captured the Qara Qozak Bridge and possibly Manbij itself on December 8 and 9.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have also intensified operations in southern Syria, establishing a buffer zone along the Golan Heights. Israeli forces reportedly advanced into the disengagement zone, capturing strategic positions, including Mount Hermon, and warning local residents to stay indoors.
Concurrently, the Israeli Air Force conducted over 100 airstrikes targeting Syrian Arab Army (SAA) positions, Hezbollah-affiliated sites, and facilities linked to chemical weapons and missile programs.
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The fall of the Assad regime has highlighted rifts between Iran and Iraq over Syria’s future. Iranian officials reportedly expressed surprise at Iraq’s refusal to send forces to defend Assad, reflecting a shift in Baghdad’s stance.
While some Iranian-backed militia leaders in Iraq have called for action to support Assad, senior Iraqi officials have emphasized Syria’s conflict as an internal matter, signaling a divergence in strategy between the two allies.
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