The United States had previously provided political endorsement, funding and arms to Kurdish militia groups that were central in dismantling the Islamic State ISIS base in northern Syria and parts of Iraq. Public statements and policy documents from the Obama administration highlighted cooperation with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as a key component of the anti‑ISIS coalition.

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Under the Trump administration, following a change in the Syrian political leadership and a shift in U.S. strategic calculations, senior officials announced a policy realignment that prioritized diplomatic engagement with the Syrian government over continued backing of the Kurdish factions. Official briefings noted that the United States would cease incremental support to the SDF and would place renewed emphasis on containment of groups that the Syrian government classified as threats to its national security.

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The realignment has coincided with an increased presence of Syrian government forces along the northern frontiers of the former SDF‑controlled zones. Reports from the region note that Kurdish settlements are experiencing a hastened withdrawal as civil military units re‑establish control over previously contested villages. Kurdish political leaders have expressed a sense of violation, citing the absence of a negotiated settlement and the sudden re‑allocation of U.S. resources. The shift is reshaping the post‑ISIS security architecture in northern Syria, prompting new discussions among international stakeholders regarding stability and governance.