Female Kurdish fighters from the Women's Protection Units (YPJ), who became global symbols of the fight against Islamic State, are negotiating with Syria's new authorities to retain a combat and security role after a government overhaul [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/). The developments follow major restructuring within Syria's security apparatus and the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces into national military frameworks, leaving the future of all-female units subject to intensive discussions with Damascus [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/). YPJ commanders emphasize that their forces possess extensive battlefield experience and are exploring integration paths within the interior ministry or specialized units to preserve their hard-earned operational capabilities and collective identity [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/)