Dozens of SDF Fighters Defect to Syrian Government in Aleppo

Syrian state forces have secured the defection of approximately 100 fighters from the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Aleppo. The Internal Security Forces (ISF), a branch of Syria's government, announced the operation. The defectors reportedly crossed from SDF-held areas into territory controlled by the Syrian regime. The SDF is a Kurdish-led military alliance that played a major role in defeating the Islamic State group in Syria. It is a key partner for the U.S.-led international coalition. However, it is viewed as an adversary by the Syrian government in Damascus. This large-scale defection deals a symbolic blow to the SDF. It highlights ongoing tensions in northern Syria, where multiple forces compete for control. The move could strengthen the Syrian government's influence in the volatile region. Neither the SDF nor the U.S. coalition has issued an immediate public comment on the reported defections.