Turkey-backed Forces Capture Manbij as Syrian Opposition Celebrates Bashar al-Assad's Ouster

Turkey-backed Syrian opposition groups claimed control of the northern Syrian town of Manbij on December 8, 2024, marking a significant victory against US-backed Syrian Kurdish forces (SDF). The Syrian National Army (SNA) and other rebel groups had been engaged in intense fighting with the SDF in recent days, which culminated in the town's capture, according to a Turkish security source.

The town of Manbij, located just 30 kilometers from the Turkish border and west of the Euphrates River, had been under Kurdish control until opposition forces advanced. In a video verified by Reuters, opposition forces were shown being welcomed by local residents, reflecting widespread support for the change in power. The SDF had been battling to retain the town amid fierce clashes with Turkish-backed rebels.

This offensive is part of a larger, rapid advance by the opposition, who surprised many by taking control of Aleppo and, more recently, the Syrian capital of Damascus. In less than two weeks, these opposition forces have brought down the regime of Bashar al-Assad after a devastating 13-year civil war.

Abdurrahman Mustafa, head of the Turkey-backed opposition's provisional government, praised the troops for their success in Manbij, vowing to continue their push for the liberation of all Syrian territories. "We stand with pride and honor with our heroic forces," he declared.

The United States has expressed its commitment to maintaining its presence in eastern Syria, where the SDF is primarily stationed. US officials stated that they would take necessary steps to prevent the resurgence of ISIS in the region. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed recent US strikes on ISIS cells, aiming to hinder their efforts to exploit the chaos from the ongoing rebellion.

Amid this rapidly changing situation, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Turkey's role in supporting Syria's reconstruction. He assured that Turkey would continue to coordinate with regional partners to ensure the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees and migrants hosted in Turkey, as well as contribute to rebuilding efforts. Turkey has long hosted over 3 million Syrian refugees and has been involved in several military operations in northern Syria against Kurdish militia groups it regards as terrorist organizations, including the YPG, which it links to the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party).

As a new phase begins in Syria, Fidan stressed the need for an inclusive Syrian government that respects all ethnic and religious groups. He also called for peace and stability in the region, emphasizing that groups like ISIS and PKK should not benefit from the situation.

The sudden shift in the Syrian conflict has triggered economic optimism in Turkey, with Turkish construction and cement companies seeing their shares surge as the prospect of rebuilding Syria draws nearer.