Syrian Free Army ready to work with SDF against ISIS
RAQQA, Syria (North Press) – Salem al-Antri, the current leader of the Syrian Free Army (formerly Maghaweir al-Thowra), stated on Saturday to North Press that they are open to cooperate with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in combating the Islamic State (ISIS).
The Syrian Free Army, supported by the U.S., is currently stationed at al-Tanf military base in southern Homs Governorate, central Syria. The Syrian Free Army is composed of approximately 500 members, including officers who defected from the Syrian government forces. It occasionally conducts joint military maneuvers with the U.S.-led Global Coalition forces.
Al-Antri, who has recently been appointed leader of the Syrian Free Army, stated that there is currently no coordination with any other forces outside Region 55, a triangular area within Syria sharing borders with Iraq and Jordan; it includes al-Tanf base and the Rukban camp.
Region 55, controlled by the Syrian Free Army, holds significant strategic importance in curbing Iran’s expansion and restricting its access to the Mediterranean Sea.
Al-Antri further told North Press that they hold great respect and goodwill towards the SDF, considering them partners in the Coalition’s fight against ISIS.
He added that they remain open to collaborate in combating the extremist group.
Before 2022, the Army was known as the Maghaweir al-Thowra Army before officially changing its name to the Syrian Free Army.
Al-Antri clarified that the Army focuses on combatting ISIS and preventing the advancement of Iranian-backed militias that target the region from Iraqi territories.
Al-Antri denied any coordination or communication between the Army and the Jordanian government or the local leaders in the Druze-majority governorate of Suwayda, southern Syria.
He underscored that they are open to work with any national force that combats extremism in all its forms and strive for a better future for Syria.
Lieutenant Colonel al-Antri replaced Colonel Muhammad Farid al-Qasim, who was dismissed from his position due to involvement in drug trafficking, according to media reports.
Regarding the drug accusations against his predecessor, al-Antri stated, “We have no knowledge of Syrian Free Army members being involved in illicit activities. We are open to dialogue with any official entity that provides evidence of anyone’s involvement, and there will be a military trial for anyone engaged in prohibited activities.”