U.S. Congress approves $130 million to support SDF and Free Syrian Army
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The United States Senate has approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the 2026 fiscal year, allocating approximately $130 million to support the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northeast Syria and the Free Syrian Army (FSA) in the country’s south.
The legislation, with a total defense budget of around $925 billion, was passed by a vote of 77 to 20. The allocated funds will cover salaries, training, equipment, and logistical support for partner forces operating in Syria as part of ongoing counterterrorism and stabilization efforts.
According to the bill, $65 million is designated for salaries, $15.6 million for training and armament, $32.4 million for logistical assistance, $15.3 million for maintenance of vehicles and facilities, and an additional $1.5 million for operational services.
The inclusion of continued support for the SDF underscores Washington’s ongoing partnership with the Kurdish-led force, which remains a key ally in combating the remnants of the Islamic State (ISIS) in northeastern Syria. The SDF, backed by the U.S.-led Global Coalition, continues to secure vast territories in Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and Hasakah governorates, maintaining stability and local governance through coordination with the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
Meanwhile, the law also provides limited support to factions of the Free Syrian Army in southern Syria, reflecting a broader U.S. strategy of sustaining vetted local partners across different regions of the country.
The NDAA’s passage coincided with Washington’s recent decision to repeal the “Caesar Act” sanctions imposed on Damascus, a move seen as part of a gradual recalibration of U.S. policy toward Syria’s protracted conflict and its economic implications.
The newly approved defense budget will now proceed to the implementation phase following expected presidential ratification.