U.S. House committee backs SDF integration, calls for force professionalization
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – A U.S. House Armed Services Committee amendment expressed support for integrating units of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syria’s security institutions while calling for an assessment of programs aimed at professionalizing Syrian security forces.
The amendment to H.R. 8800, introduced by Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina on June 4, said the committee supports U.S. objectives of a stable Syria that is free from radical Islamist terrorism, at peace with its neighbors, and protective of ethnic and religious minorities.
The committee specifically endorsed efforts by the Syrian government to integrate brigade-sized SDF units into the Syrian Ministry of Defense and appoint senior SDF leaders to positions with equivalent influence within the ministry.
According to the amendment, lawmakers view the integration process as a model for incorporating minority security and governance institutions into state structures and support U.S. efforts to facilitate that process.
At the same time, the committee voiced concerns about Syria’s security situation, citing inconsistent command and control among forces affiliated with the Syrian government and limited operational capabilities.
The amendment also highlighted unresolved reports of atrocities against ethnic minorities, allegations of civilian casualties during military operations in the winter of 2025-2026, and the escape of thousands of ISIS-linked detainees and associates from prisons and camps in northeastern Syria.
As a result, the committee directed the U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, in coordination with the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, to submit a report by Jan. 31, 2027, examining the feasibility of using existing U.S. security cooperation authorities to strengthen and professionalize vetted Syrian security forces drawn from different ethnic and sectarian backgrounds.
The report is expected to assess potential Defense Department-led seminars, workshops and training programs focused on military professionalization, compliance with the law of armed conflict and international human rights standards, and civilian oversight of the military.
It will also evaluate the legal authorities available to the Department of Defense and determine how such programs align with U.S. national security and defense objectives.