Limited Protests Against SDF in Several Syrian Cities Despite Widespread Online Calls

Several Syrian cities witnessed limited demonstrations on Friday against the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), despite widespread calls on social media urging participation in protests against the policies of the Autonomous Administration.

According to local sources and eyewitnesses, protests took place in Aleppo, Damascus, Homs, and Latakia, as well as in Tel Abyad in northern Raqqa countryside and parts of Deir ez-Zor countryside.

The sources reported that the number of participants did not exceed a few dozen in most cities, noting that turnout was lower than expected despite the extensive digital mobilization.

Protesters carried banners demanding better living conditions and basic services, while criticizing what they described as “poor governance” in SDF-controlled areas. They also called for improved security and protection of civilians from abuses and violations.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights quoted its sources as saying that some participants were affiliated with the Syrian Transitional Government, and that they documented the demonstrations on video. The Observatory also reported an incident during one protest in which a child was filmed using offensive language against the SDF, allegedly recorded by security personnel affiliated with the Transitional Government.

According to observers, these demonstrations reflect public discontent with deteriorating living and security conditions, though they remain limited in scope and impact, given the country’s ongoing security and political complexities.

Analysts believe the protests express growing popular frustration across several regions but do not signal a major political shift, in the absence of comprehensive solutions to Syria’s crisis now entering its 14th year.