Kurdish Women’s Protection Units seek role in Syria’s new security forces

More than 1,500 fighters from the Kurdish Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) are seeking inclusion in Syria’s new security institutions following the dissolution of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as an independent military organization.

YPJ commander Nowruz Ahmed stated that Syrian officials rejected a proposal to incorporate the group into the army as an independent women’s brigade or battalion. The group argues that their extensive combat experience against the Islamic State (ISIS) qualifies them for organized military roles.

While male SDF fighters are being integrated into the army, YPJ leaders fear their members will be excluded or split into individual units rather than remaining a cohesive formation. The YPJ is currently exploring a potential role within the Interior Ministry’s special operations forces and is awaiting a response regarding their request to be incorporated as a single force.