Fighting has intensified in northern Syria as government forces advance toward Raqqa, raising the prospect of a major confrontation with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.
Syria&rsquo;s military says it has captured the strategic town of Tabqa, west of Raqqa, during a rapid push aimed at regaining control of key territory held by the SDF. The move brings government troops significantly closer to Raqqa, a city that has remained outside Damascus&rsquo;s control for years.
Heavy clashes are also being reported east of Deir ez-Zor, where the military claims it has secured Deir Hafer and taken control of the Jarrah airbase. Officials say operations are underway to clear mines and unexploded ordnance, suggesting preparations for long-term deployment.
The escalation comes amid a shifting political backdrop. President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently issued a decree recognizing Kurdish as a national language and granting formal recognition to the Kurdish minority. Despite the move, government forces appear to be tightening their grip on Kurdish-administered areas through military means.
The Syrian army says four of its soldiers were killed in clashes with Kurdish fighters. The SDF has acknowledged casualties among its forces but has not released figures. Fighting continues along key supply routes, with reports of civilians fleeing areas near the frontlines.
Raqqa holds major strategic and symbolic value. Once the de facto capital of ISIS, it later became a centre of Kurdish self-administration. Any assault on the city could mark one of the most consequential shifts in control since the start of the Syrian conflict, with potential regional and international repercussions.

Syria force advance as SDF braces for Raqqa battle

Government troops push deeper into Kurdish-held areas amid heavy clashes in north Syria

Syria force advance as SDF braces for Raqqa battle

Government troops push deeper into Kurdish-held areas amid heavy clashes in north Syria

January 18, 2026 | 12:39 IST