Damascus Deploys Security Forces in Kurdish Areas Under Controversial Deal, Undermining Regional Stability

In a troubling development for regional stability and American strategic interests, Syrian Interior Ministry-affiliated security forces have begun deploying in Kurdish-majority areas of northeastern Syria, notably in Qamishli and surrounding towns. This move follows an uneasy deal struck between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which until recently operated with significant autonomy backed by U.S. support. Is This Agreement a Step Toward Stability or a Setup for Conflict? The agreement allows small contingents of government security forces to re-enter Kurdish-held territories under the guise of securing state institutions—such as civil registries, airports, and oil facilities. However, this so-called cooperation...