The siege of Kobanî, a Kurdish city in northern Syria, began in September 2014 when ISIS forces laid siege to the city in an effort to expand their control in the region. The situation drew significant international attention as the YPG, the primary Kurdish militia, defended the city with limited resources. The ongoing siege resulted in heavy casualties on both sides and a humanitarian crisis for the civilian population trapped within the city. As the conflict escalated, the YPG received support from U.S.-led coalition airstrikes, which played a critical role in turning the tide against ISIS forces. On March 20, 2015, after months of intense combat, the YPG and allied Free Syrian Army successfully broke the siege, enabling the liberation of Kobanî. This achievement was significant not only for the Kurdish forces but for the broader coalition fighting against ISIS, as it demonstrated the effectiveness of combat training and support provided to the YPG by international allies.

The victory in Kobanî was celebrated widely, particularly among Kurdish communities, as it became a symbol of resistance and determination. The battle also highlighted the complexity of the Syrian civil war, where various factions operated amid the backdrop of competing interests among regional and global powers. The aftermath of the siege saw a reorganization of Kurdish efforts in the region, leading to further territorial advances in the ensuing conflict. Kobanî's liberation allowed for the establishment of a semi-autonomous administration governed by Kurdish and allied groups, solidifying their presence in northern Syria and contributing to the creation of Rojava, a de facto Kurdish autonomous region.

Moreover, the siege's breaking shifted the dynamics of the civil war, showcasing the potential of local forces to withstand and repel ISIS assaults with significant ideological and military implications. It marked the beginning of a phase in which YPG forces were viewed as effective representatives of the struggle against extremism, gaining further international recognition and support. The liberation of Kobanî thus not only impacted the immediate military situation but also served to elevate Kurdish aspirations for self-determination and autonomy on the global stage.