The US is increasing its military presence in Syrian Kurdistan, according to reports.
Regional news outlet Kurdistan 24 reported on Thursday that “a convoy of 50 trucks carrying Bremer walls entered Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)-controlled areas in northeastern Syria (Rojava) on Thursday.” The vehicles were reported to be heading towards the city of Kobani, near the Turkish border.
The delivery is reported to be “part of ongoing efforts by US forces to reinforce existing bases and establish a new military facility in Kobani.”
“Reliable SOHR sources have confirmed that excavation and construction work is expected to begin on Friday, with additional reinforcements anticipated.”
Two other regional news outlets, Iran International and Shafaq also reported the story, providing further details.
Shafaq reported that “the reinforcements reportedly included 14 cargo planes carrying military equipment and soldiers, along with 233 military vehicles comprising trucks, armored vehicles, and troop carriers.”
The US military has maintained a presence in Syria for years, in large part to contain Islamic State. The US helps Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) maintain prisons that contain tens of thousands of ISIS members and their families.
At present, the situation in the country remains uncertain and subject to change. Moves are underway to create a largely autonomous Kurdish zone in the north of the country, although some Kurdish groups want a fully independent Kurdistan.
ISIS are also reportedly enjoying greater freedom of movement in desert areas of the country, largely as a result of Turkish operations, which have prevented the SDF from continuing its own operations against the group.