The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are preparing to engage with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, currently in charge of Syria. HTS recently took over Damascus, prompting Bashar Assad to flee to Russia. The SDF is reaching out to HTS as they face attacks from the Syrian National Army (SNA) backed by Turkey. The SDF is also concerned about the resurgence of ISIS in the region and the security of ISIS prisons under their control.
Key Points
SDF preparing to engage with HTS despite U.S. designating HTS as a terrorist organization
Concerns over security of ISIS prisons in the region controlled by SDF
Turkish-backed attacks leading to mass displacement of Kurdish civilians in northern Syria
Pros
Potential for diplomatic relations between SDF and HTS
Peace gestures from Kurds towards the new regime in Syria
Cons
Threats to security from ISIS resurgence in the region
Mass displacement of Kurdish civilians due to Turkish-backed attacks