Economist Podcasts House of Kurds: on the ground in northern Syria
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Jan 21, 2026 Recent clashes in northeastern Syria highlight the complex dynamics between Kurdish forces and the Syrian government. A correspondent reports on the shifting frontlines and the strategic significance of Shadadi in the fight against ISIS. Meanwhile, excitement brews in Vietnam as factions vie for power in a critical Communist Party Congress that could reshape the nation’s future. The podcast also touches on the evolving role of millennial fathers, revealing increased involvement in childcare and aiming for greater gender equality.
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Frontline From A Checkpoint
- Gareth Brown described sitting by a military checkpoint in northeastern Syria amidst ambulances and troops as columns moved north and east.
- He reported towns like Shadadi shifting from SDF to Syrian government control within days, with Kurdish forces retreating north.
Shadadi's Tumultuous Recent History
- Gareth recalled Shadadi's history: once held by ISIS, retaken by the US-backed SDF, and housing a prison with thousands of ISIS-affiliated detainees.
- He noted the town switched control from the SDF to the Syrian government about 48 hours earlier.
Kurdish Autonomy's Rapid Unraveling
- The Syrian Democratic Forces became an embryo of Kurdish statehood after the war against ISIS, backed by the US coalition.
- That de facto autonomy has largely collapsed in days as government forces reclaimed large swathes of territory.