Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has reached a preliminary agreement with Damascus on a plan to integrate the SDF as a single group into the Syrian Army. The announcement was made by Syria TV on October 16th, 2025, during the reporting window of 7:06 PM to 10:06 PM UTC. Details of the integration plan remain scarce, but the agreement signifies a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape of Syria. The SDF has been a key player in the fight against ISIS, operating primarily in northeastern Syria. This potential integration could reshape the command structure and operational capabilities of the Syrian military. Separately, Namir Assad, a second-degree cousin of Bashar Assad, was arrested and accused by the Internal Security Forces (ISC) of multiple kidnappings targeting Alawi civilians. According to reports, Namir Assad was also involved in drug smuggling and participated in an attack on security forces in Slenfeh, Latakia province. Three accomplices were apprehended with him. The gang is reportedly responsible for murder, theft, and abductions. Further underscoring concerns about abductions in the region, an Alawi woman who was kidnapped late last week was found two days ago along with other missing coastal women near the Lebanese border. This discovery has raised questions about the networks involved in these kidnappings.
