Who controls major oil production in Syria?

Introduction

Based on the recent developments in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, the control of major oil production in Syria is divided among several groups

History

The Kurdish-led SDF controls approximately 70% of Syria’s oil resources. This control is supported by US troops, with about 500 American soldiers guarding oil facilities alongside SDF forces.

The US presence in these oil-rich areas is primarily aimed at preventing ISIS from regaining control of these resources and to counter Russian and Syrian government forces.

There are conflicting views on the status of Kurdish groups. While the US supports the SDF, Turkey considers some Kurdish groups, particularly the PYD (Democratic Union Party), as affiliates of the PKK, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the US, Europe, and Turkey.

The US-backed deal to develop oil fields in northern Syria involves the SDF and a US company, Delta Crescent Energy, rather than other groups.

It’s crucial to note that the situation in Syria is complex and constantly evolving. The control of oil resources remains a contentious issue among various actors in the region, including the HTS, Turkey , Kurds , US, and local forces.

Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)

The SDF, backed by the United States, controls the majority of Syria’s oil fields, particularly in the northeast and east of the country. These Kurdish-led forces have held control over the largest oil fields since around 2020.

Pro-American Forces

In addition to the SDF, other pro-American militants also control some of the main oil deposits in Syria.

Former Government-Controlled Areas

Prior to Assad’s fall, the Syrian government had regained control of some small oil and gas fields in the central region following interventions by Iran and Russia in 2015. However, the current status of these fields is uncertain given the recent change in power.

Production and Control Breakdown

Syria’s oil production has significantly decreased since the start of the civil war in 2011.

Pre-conflict production was over 380,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil.

By 2023, oil and liquid production had fallen to approximately 40,000 bpd.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimated that in recent years, territories controlled by Assad’s government were only provided with 38.7% of their energy resources from domestic production.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that the situation is fluid and control over oil fields may shift as the new authorities seek to consolidate power and potentially engage in conflicts over these valuable resources. Turkey has also expressed interest in “liberating” Syria’s oil fields from Kurdish control, which could lead to further changes in the control of oil production in the near future.