The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a coalition primarily composed of Kurdish militia and Arab fighters, declared victory over the Islamic State in Raqqa, a key city that had served as the de facto capital of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate. This announcement came after a multi-month offensive characterized by intense urban combat and significant civilian displacement. Coalition forces, led by the United States, provided critical air support and training to the SDF, enabling them to advance through heavily fortified areas despite fierce resistance. Upon entering the city, the SDF faced the challenge of navigating a complex urban battlefield, where ISIS combatants had dug in and used civilians as shields. Raqqa's liberation was not merely a military success; it carried profound psychological implications in the fight against extremism in the region. The city's symbolic weight as the heart of ISIS's governance made the announcement of victory a significant milestone in the larger campaign against the terrorist organization in Syria and Iraq. The SDF's victory posed questions about the post-ISIS governance of the region as rival factions, international interests, and local populations sought to shape Raqqa's future. Furthermore, the outcome of the Raqqa campaign foreshadowed ongoing tensions between various ethnic groups and military forces operating in the area. As the SDF shifted from military to civilian governance, they confronted challenges in restoring order, facilitating humanitarian aid, and addressing the grievances of local populations affected by years of conflict. The involvement of various international actors added further complexity to the political landscape, shaping the trajectory of post-war reconstruction and governance in northeastern Syria.