Endless Struggle: Syria's Kurds Clash with Turkey Post-Assad's Downfall

Title: The Ongoing Struggle and Resilience in North-East Syria

As the conflict in North-East Syria persists into another decade, the aftermath of the battle against the Islamic State (IS) remains palpable. In 2019, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) heralded a significant victory over IS, yet the challenges to maintain peace and stability continue to grow as external forces like Turkey escalate their military operations against the region.

This area, predominantly Kurdish and known as Rojava, has been governed as a self-declared autonomous region since the civil war erupted in 2012. A rickety floating bridge over the River Tigris serves as one of the few access points into this complex and volatile terrain. Many women, inspired by the empowerment of the all-female Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), have played a pivotal role in this struggle for autonomy and sovereignty.

In stark contrast, Turkey views the SDF, particularly the People’s Protection Units (YPG), as associated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group that has long campaigned for Kurdish rights within Turkey’s borders and is considered a terrorist organization by Ankara. This has led to escalating tensions and military interventions from Turkey, which has launched various operations against SDF-controlled territories since 2016, successfully capturing significant portions of land along the border.

Reports indicate that the Syrian National Army (SNA)—a coalition of Turkish-backed rebel factions—has taken over regions of strategic importance, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. As the SNA pushes west across the Euphrates River, locals express concerns over the devastation of essential infrastructure. Many have witnessed firsthand the destruction of power plants, refineries, and communication systems due to Turkish airstrikes targeting SDF positions.

This reality is heartbreaking, especially as communities endeavor to rebuild ten years after IS overran much of the region, taking advantage of the chaos. The city of Kobane emerged as a crucial battleground during this dark chapter, where ten years later, residents unite to commemorate their resilience against IS. Armed women, echoing the legacy of their predecessors, now serve as vigilant protectors at city checkpoints.

While attending the anniversary celebrations, the palpable emotions of remembrance and loss fill the air. Local resident Newrouz Ahmad, a mother of four, poignantly recounted lighting candles for her brother who fell during the fighting. Such moments provide a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by many in their fight for freedom.

Civilians in this region have faced numerous challenges, including aerial bombardments from Turkish drones that indiscriminately target both the SDF and non-combatants. One voice among many, Lea Bunse—a German peace activist—has documented these atrocities while working at a women's shelter in Rojava. Her accounts shed light on the harrowing experiences faced by ordinary people caught in the crossfire.

Human Rights Watch condemned the attacks by the Turkish-SNA coalition, branding a recent strike on a Kurdish Red Crescent ambulance an apparent war crime. Contrarily, the Turkish government has ardently dismissed such assertions, claiming its military actions aim to eliminate threats emanating from the SDF. They argue that the SDF exploits civilians as human shields, perpetuating the ongoing cycle of violence.

In the midst of this turmoil, Syria's interim government, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, grapples with its role in seeking peace. Sharaa, representing an Islamist faction that contributed to the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, has publicly called for an inclusive governance model. Despite these intentions, meaningful dialogue with the Kurdish autonomous administration remains elusive, as they have been excluded from key discussions regarding the country’s future.

General Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the SDF, characterized these times as increasingly perilous as foreign attacks continue unabated, jeopardizing the fragile peace soldiers and civilians alike strive to uphold. In a recent conversation near an American military base, Abdi expressed a desire for negotiation and dialogue but acknowledged the complexities of their situation.

The situation in North-East Syria encapsulates the intricate web of local and regional politics intertwined with the enduring struggle for autonomy, dignity, and survival. As the world watches, the resilience of the people, particularly the courageous women who have taken up arms and roles in leadership, serves as a testament to their commitment to forge a better tomorrow.

In summary, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, yet the determination to create a peaceful and autonomous future persists. The lasting impact of the past continues to shape the present, beckoning a commitment from local and international actors alike to foster a path toward lasting peace and justice in this war-torn region.