SDF Leader: Foreign Fighters Who Supported Us Against ISIS to Leave Syria

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – General Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), announced Thursday that foreign fighters who supported the SDF in its fight against ISIS will leave Syria if a ceasefire is reached with Turkey.

Speaking to Reuters, Abdi confirmed that some foreign fighters have already returned to their countries, while others remain in Syria due to the ongoing conflict in the region.

“Some fighters want to return home, but the continued war in our areas has compelled many to stay and support us,” Abdi said.

Turkey and its allied factions have intensified attacks on northern Syrian cities since the fall of the Assad regime. According to the SDF, Ankara aims to occupy strategic areas, including Kobani, under the pretext of combating security threats.

Abdi highlighted the evolving situation in Syria, stating:

“We are entering a political phase where Syrians must solve their own problems. Once a ceasefire with Turkey is achieved, efforts to return non-Syrian fighters to their home countries can begin.”

Foreign Fighters in Syria’s Conflict

Since the rise of ISIS, foreign fighters have played a pivotal role in the conflict. Initially, many joined extremist groups, but others volunteered to support local forces like the SDF in their fight against ISIS. These fighters, hailing from Europe, North America, and other regions, were instrumental in securing key victories, including the liberation of Raqqa and other territories previously under ISIS control.

The presence of these foreign fighters has been both a strength and a challenge for the SDF. Their contributions boosted military capabilities and international awareness, but their long-term presence in Syria has raised questions about legal status, accountability, and reintegration into their home countries.

Ongoing Turkish Attacks

Turkey’s military operations in northern Syria, particularly after Assad’s fall, have further complicated the region’s stability. Ankara views the SDF as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which it designates as a terrorist organization.

Following Assad’s ousting, Turkey has escalated its efforts to expand influence in northern Syria, targeting cities like Kobani and Manbij. The SDF accuses Turkey of pursuing an agenda of territorial expansion under the guise of counterterrorism.

Abdi’s call for a ceasefire underscores the SDF’s desire to shift from military operations to political negotiations, a move that could pave the way for resolving long-standing conflicts with Turkey.

Challenges of Repatriating Foreign Fighters

The repatriation of foreign fighters poses a significant challenge. Many fighters are viewed as heroes by their communities for battling ISIS, but others face legal and social hurdles upon returning to their home countries.

European nations, in particular, have been cautious about accepting citizens who fought in Syria, often citing security concerns and the lack of clear legal frameworks to process their cases. Abdi’s statement suggests that the SDF is committed to facilitating a responsible return process for these fighters, provided that the regional conflict de-escalates.