US-led coalition establishes base in northern Syria

The US-led coalition against ISIS has begun constructing a military base in Kobani, northern Syria, as clashes continue between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkey-aligned rebel groups.

A convoy carrying construction materials and logistical reinforcements was seen heading to Kobani on Thursday, according to the SDF-affiliated North Press Agency.

The convoy included prefabricated structures, trench-digging machinery, surveillance equipment, and fuel tanks as reported by the New Region.

It comes amidst renewed violence in areas controlled by the SDF, following Turkey-backed forces' campaigns that began in late November which have resulted in significant casualties and displaced thousands of civilians.

The recent ousting of the Assad government, led by the Turkey-backed rebel coalition Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, has reshaped the region.

The collapse of Assad on December 8 marked the end of his family's five-decade rule, presenting a strategic setback for Iran.

Syria has historically served as a key conduit for Iran to supply Hezbollah in Lebanon and bolster its military allies in the region. The loss of this corridor undermines Tehran's regional influence and disrupts its long-standing strategy in the Levant.

Iran’s deep military and financial commitments in Syria now face diminishing returns. Rival actors such as Turkey and Persian Gulf Arab states are poised to fill the void, further isolating Hezbollah and compelling Tehran to reconsider its regional posture amidst intensifying domestic economic pressures.

Turkey has intensified its efforts to capture strategic locations from the SDF, including Kobani and the Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates River. Backed by Turkish warplanes, these operations underscore Ankara's intent to neutralize what it views as a security threat posed by the Kurdish-led forces. Despite these efforts, the SDF has so far resisted the advances.

As the US's primary ally in the fight against ISIS, the SDF controls nearly a quarter of Syrian territory, primarily in the northeast and east. However, Turkey continues to press for the disarmament of the group, insisting that it poses a direct risk to its national security.