Syrian army takes over key dam, finds YPG arms cache

Under a new ceasefire and integration deal between Damascus and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the Syrian Arab Army is advancing to reestablish control across northeastern Syria. In a significant development, government forces have peacefully taken over the strategic Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates River and uncovered a major weapons cache left behind by withdrawing YPG/SDF fighters.

Seizure of Strategic Infrastructure and Weapons

The Tishrin Dam, located southwest of Manbij, was transferred to Syrian army control on Wednesday without conflict after YPG/SDF forces withdrew. Upon securing the facility, troops discovered a substantial ammunition depot containing explosives, kamikaze drones, rocket launchers, mortar rounds, and various other weapons. Concurrently, army units are advancing between the towns of Kobani and Raqqa, having taken control of Ain Issa, and are moving towards the Tel Abyad-Ras al-Ayn line near the Turkish border.

Challenges and Security Incidents

The implementation of the agreement is facing obstacles. The Syrian military reported that three soldiers were killed in recent attacks by what it described as PKK and former regime elements attempting to sabotage the deal. Furthermore, a serious security incident occurred in the town of Shaddadi in Hasakah province, where YPG/SDF authorities, upon refusing to hand over a prison to the Syrian army, reportedly released an unspecified number of Daesh detainees. Syrian forces have since entered Shaddadi to recapture the escaped prisoners.

Broader Regional Advance and Implications

The Syrian army, with support from local Arab tribes, has also begun entering the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, aiming for a full deployment across towns and villages as per the integration plan. The YPG/SDF has agreed to fully withdraw from Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor under the terms of the deal. However, attempts to disrupt the advance include the destruction of key bridges, such as those linking Raqqa to Tabqa and the Reshid Bridge. These developments are closely monitored by Türkiye, which views the YPG as an extension of the PKK terrorist organization and has long sought the removal of the group from its southern border.