Syrian Forces Capture Key Oil Fields Amid Intensified Fighting
Syrian military forces captured the al-Omar oil field, the largest in Syria, on Sunday, as clashes with the Kurdish-led Syrian Defence Forces (SDF) escalated. The SDF also retreated from the al-Tanak oilfield and the Conoco gasfield in the Deir Az Zor area. The Syrian military's advance has led to the fall of Tabqah, a strategic city near Raqqa, which is under siege. The military is reportedly employing a pincer strategy to push SDF forces north towards the Turkish border. Despite a recent decree recognizing Kurdish rights, tensions remain high, with both sides accusing each other of failing to uphold agreements. The SDF's withdrawal from certain territories follows accusations of violations by the Syrian government.
Published 1 day ago • 18 Jan 2026, 01:44 PM IST