Trump Faces Challenges as ISIS Threat Resurfaces in Syria Amid Turkish Attacks

Concerns rise over a potential ISIS resurgence in Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime and increased attacks on U.S.-aligned SDF. Turkish-backed forces have targeted the SDF, complicating the U.S. stance in the region. The Biden administration has escalated military actions against ISIS, but the operational capacity of the SDF is threatened due to rising attacks and geopolitical tensions involving Turkey.

Concerns regarding the resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria are escalating due to the recent collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime and increasing assaults on U.S.-aligned Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump may face significant challenges as the SDF is compelled to reallocate its attention between combatting ISIS and responding to threats posed by Turkey. On Saturday, reports from Reuters indicated that five SDF soldiers lost their lives in attacks orchestrated by Turkish-backed forces in northern Syria.

These incidents emerge following the apparent failure of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, prompting a renewed urgency among U.S. and SDF forces in their efforts against ISIS. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized in an interview with CNN that his foremost concern is the potential return of ISIS, once considered defeated in 2019. “ISIS loves vacuums,” he noted, highlighting the extremist group’s opportunistic nature in exploiting power struggles.

Syrian territory currently features ungoverned regions due to the diminishing power of the Assad regime, which further complicates the campaign against ISIS. The U.S. has maintained a delicate balance of supporting Kurdish coalition forces against ISIS while also collaborating with Turkey, a NATO ally, which has labeled the SDF as akin to the terrorist organization PKK. Bill Roggio from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies underscored the shifting dynamics, asserting that with the SDF’s position compromised by both Turkey and the declining Assad regime, there is a credible risk of ISIS expansion.

The Biden administration has intensified its military efforts against ISIS, conducting extensive airstrikes targeting known ISIS locations and leaders. This escalation occurred recently amidst significant territorial shifts in Syria, including the takeover of key cities by Turkey-backed factions. In a notable operation, U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes that successfully eliminated ISIS leader Abu Yusif, amidst rising concerns over the group reclaiming operational capability in the chaos following the Assad regime’s collapse.

The SDF continues to exert strategic efforts against ISIS, having apprehended 18 individuals associated with the group near Raqqa. While claims of cooperation with international coalition forces abound, the extent of direct U.S. involvement remains unconfirmed. As the SDF faces simultaneous external pressures from Turkish-backed factions, the operational capabilities of the group may substantially diminish. This scenario poses a significant dilemma for the Trump administration regarding the prevention of further ISIS resurgence and managing relations with Turkey, which appears poised to exert considerable influence over the new Syrian government. “President Trump is committed to diminishing threats to peace and stability in the Middle East and to protecting Americans here at home.” – Brian Hughes, Trump-Vance Transition spokesperson.

The Islamic State has long posed a threat in Syria as regional dynamics shift. Following the downfall of the Assad regime, a power vacuum emerges that can be exploited by ISIS. The SDF, which has played a critical role in combating ISIS, now finds its operational focus divided due to Turkish incursions and attacks. The challenges faced by the incoming Trump administration involve navigating these complex alliances while effectively countering potential ISIS resurgence in a politically unstable environment.

In conclusion, the situation in Syria remains precarious, with heightened concerns regarding the resurgence of ISIS as the SDF faces increasing threats from Turkish forces. The Biden administration’s intensified military efforts exemplify the urgency of addressing these challenges. As the Trump administration prepares to take office, balancing U.S. relations with Turkey while combating ISIS will prove to be a formidable task amidst ongoing regional instability.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com