Syrian U.S.-backed Kurdish Syrian forces (SDF) said U.S-brokered mediation efforts failed to reach a permanent ceasefire with Syria's Turkey-backed rebels in the northern cities of Manbij and Kobani,

Sources told Al-Monitor that negotiations between the sides had “failed” amid “significant military buildups” on the Turkish border.

The situation in Manbij, a strategically vital city in northern Syria, has sharply deteriorated. In late November 2024, the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army launched a major offensive against the city, which has been under SDF control. The assault has led to intense clashes, civilian casualties, and a deepening humanitarian crisis.