The United States has endorsed a controversial initiative by Syria’s new leadership to integrate approximately 3,500 former jihadist fighters into the national army, according to a report by Reuters. The plan marks a major shift in regional policy, as many of these militants previously fought with rebel groups against the Assad regime.
Most of the fighters slated for integration are foreign nationals, particularly Uyghurs from China and neighboring Central Asian countries. They will reportedly be absorbed into a newly formed 84th Division alongside Syrian nationals and placed under the command of the Syrian Ministry of Defense.
U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack, appointed by President Donald Trump, stated during a visit to Damascus that Washington supports the plan under the condition of full transparency. “It is preferable to integrate these individuals into formal state structures rather than risk their re-radicalization or recruitment by groups like ISIS or al-Qaeda,” Barrack said.
Syrian officials argue that incorporating the fighters into the military is a strategy to reduce internal threats and stabilize volatile regions. Fighters from the Turkistan Islamic Party, in particular, are said to have dissolved their independent units and now operate under official military authority.
However, the move has sparked international concern. China has issued a formal protest, warning that legitimizing Uyghur militants poses a direct threat to its national security. Western governments have also expressed unease over reports that the Syrian government may offer citizenship to the fighters and their families.
The integration plan is part of a broader strategic realignment following President Trump’s recent Middle East tour, during which the U.S. lifted some sanctions on Syria and opened new diplomatic channels with Damascus.
Despite the risks, U.S. officials believe the move could help stabilize Syria by consolidating armed factions under state control and reducing the influence of extremist militias.
