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Raqqa Declares Victory Over ISIS After Devastating Battle

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 3:31 GMT by The New York Times

Raqqa, Syria - January 18th, 2026 - A year and a half after the grueling offensive began, Syrian Kurdish forces, operating as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), have officially declared victory over the Islamic State (ISIS) in Raqqa. The announcement, made Saturday, signifies a crucial turning point in the global fight against the extremist organization, yet it arrives alongside a stark reality: the city lies in ruins, its people displaced, and the path to recovery is fraught with immense challenges.

The battle for Raqqa, once the de facto capital of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate, has been one of the most devastating urban conflicts of recent history. Launched in June 2025, the offensive was spearheaded by the SDF, a multi-ethnic force primarily composed of Kurdish fighters, with critical air support from the U.S.-led coalition. While the coalition's aerial campaign proved instrumental in dismantling ISIS's defenses, it also tragically contributed to the widespread destruction and significant civilian casualties that define Raqqa's current state.

Initial estimates indicate that over 80% of Raqqa's infrastructure has been severely damaged or completely destroyed. Buildings reduced to rubble, vital utilities crippled, and a landscape scarred by relentless bombardment paint a grim picture of the city's condition. Thousands of residents, originally numbering around 200,000 before the offensive, have been displaced, seeking refuge in neighboring regions and internally displaced person (IDP) camps. Many remain separated from their families and lacking basic necessities.

"This victory is undeniably a crucial step," stated Commander Leyla Hassan, a spokesperson for the SDF, in a televised address. "However, it's not the end of the journey. Rebuilding Raqqa, restoring hope, and ensuring the safety and well-being of our people will require an unprecedented level of international cooperation and long-term commitment."

The immediate post-ISIS landscape presents a complex governance situation. While the SDF has pledged to establish a new, locally-led administration in collaboration with international organizations, the relationship with the Syrian government remains a significant hurdle. Damascus has not formally recognized the SDF's authority in Raqqa, and tensions persist over the region's future political alignment. This impasse could significantly impede reconstruction efforts and complicate the establishment of a stable and representative government.

Beyond the political complexities, the sheer scale of reconstruction required is staggering. Estimates suggest that rebuilding Raqqa could cost upwards of $2 billion and take decades to complete. The international community has already pledged financial and logistical support, but the commitment needs to be sustained and coordinated effectively to prevent duplication of efforts and ensure aid reaches those who need it most. Focus areas include clearing unexploded ordnance (UXO), which presents a constant danger to returning residents, restoring essential services like water and electricity, and providing shelter and healthcare for the displaced population.

Experts are also highlighting the importance of addressing the psychological trauma experienced by Raqqa's residents. Years of living under ISIS rule, witnessing horrific violence, and enduring the devastation of the offensive have left deep scars. Mental health support and psychosocial programs will be critical for facilitating the city's long-term recovery.

Furthermore, security remains a paramount concern. While ISIS has been defeated in Raqqa, the threat of sleeper cells and potential resurgence remains a real possibility. The SDF, with continued support from the international community, must implement robust security measures to prevent a return to the chaos of the past. Early reports suggest efforts are underway to screen returning residents and establish community policing initiatives.

The declaration of victory in Raqqa marks a significant milestone, but it is merely the starting point of a long and arduous journey. The future of Raqqa, and the lives of its people, hinges on the sustained commitment of the international community, the ability of local leaders to forge a unified path forward, and the resilience of the Raqqa community itself.