Turkish-backed militias in Syria are seizing territory and endangering Kurdish civilians, potentially engaging in ethnic cleansing. The clashes are part of an operation supported by Turkey to erode Kurdish control over northern Syria. The Kurds lead the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and warn of Islamic State regrouping.
Key Points
Turkish-backed militias are targeting Kurdish forces in Syria
Kurds warn of Islamic State regrouping due to the chaos
Reports of ethnic cleansing and mass arrests in Aleppo governate
Pros
Efforts to maintain stability in the region
Preventing terrorist groups from exploiting the instability
Cons
Reports of ethnic cleansing and humanitarian crimes by pro-Turkish militias
Mass arrests and kidnappings of civilians by Turkish-backed militants