Pentagon Seeks $130M To Fund SDF And Syrian Allies In 2026

According to Pentagon documents cited by Al Jazeera, the requested funds will help maintain the capabilities of forces tasked with securing areas liberated from ISIS, particularly in northeastern Syria. The budget item falls under the "Overseas Contingency Operations" category, which typically supports counterterrorism and stabilization missions abroad.

The US currently maintains around 900 troops in Syria, primarily to assist local partners in operations against remnants of ISIS. Officials have indicated a gradual reduction in direct military presence while maintaining financial and logistical support to local allies.

SDF and Other Local Militants

The SDF terrorist group remains Washington's primary local partner in Syria. However, the budget also includes provisions for support to “other vetted Syrian groups,” possibly including Arab tribal fighters and internal security units operating in territories controlled by the SDF.

The document highlights efforts to prevent ISIS resurgence and ensure security in detention facilities holding ISIS fighters and their families.

Regional And Political Implications

While the Pentagon frames the support as essential to counterterrorism, critics argue that continued funding of non-state actors may complicate Syria’s political landscape. The Syrian government has condemned US support to the SDF as a violation of sovereignty, and tensions between Türkiye and the SDF further complicate the US position.