Kurdish-led forces in Syria dissolve after merging with national army

The Kurdish-led armed group known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has formally ceased to exist as an independent military structure after merging with Syria's national army.

For almost ten years, the SDF stood as one of the principal forces confronting the Islamic State group in Syria, playing a central role in the fight against the group during that period.

Focus shifts to language

Following the merger, the SDF's commander has turned attention to a new cause: the preservation of the Kurdish language. The commander is now campaigning for its protection, following years devoted to military conflict.

The integration of the group into the national armed forces marks a significant shift in the status of Kurdish-led military structures in Syria, which had previously operated with a degree of independence from the central government. The development could shape the future role of the Kurdish community within the country's political and military framework.

Further details on the terms of the merger and next steps were not immediately available.