Syrian Kurdish-led SDF Warns of ISIS Resurgence if U.S. Withdraws Troops

General Mazloum Abdi, commander-in-chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces, warns against U.S. troop withdrawal – North Press.
General Mazloum Abdi, commander-in-chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces, warns against U.S. troop withdrawal – North Press.

HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – General Mazloum Abdi, commander-in-chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), warned on Thursday that a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria could lead to a resurgence of ISIS, jeopardizing regional and international stability.

In an interview with The Guardian, Abdi emphasized that the current U.S. military presence of approximately 2,000 troops is crucial for maintaining stability in northeastern Syria. “The key factor of stabilization in this area is the U.S. presence on the ground,” Abdi said, adding that withdrawal would create a power vacuum, enabling ISIS and other factions to regroup.

Abdi expressed concerns over ISIS gaining strength in the Syrian desert, partly due to seizing weapons from the collapsed Assad regime. He also highlighted the increased pressure on the SDF from Turkey and its allied Syrian National Army (SNA), which have targeted Kurdish-controlled areas.

The general warned of potential attacks on detention centers holding ISIS prisoners, as Kurdish forces are overstretched defending against Turkish aggression. “Any U.S. forces withdrawal will lead to another chaotic situation, and this may lead to another civil war since many factions are threatening the Kurds,” Abdi said.

The Biden administration has been focusing on mediation efforts between Turkey and the Syrian Kurdish authorities, maintaining partial stability with limited clashes around the Euphrates. However, the potential return of former U.S. President Donald Trump has raised concerns about a possible troop withdrawal, as he previously advocated for such a move in 2019.

Abdi also called on European nations to support the SDF, reminding them that his forces have fought ISIS on behalf of the global coalition, ensuring security beyond the region.

As Syria faces the aftermath of the Assad regime’s collapse, Abdi stressed that international cooperation remains essential to prevent further chaos and to build a stable future for the country.