Making stars align: Partnerships between state sponsors and armed groups

Abstract How are partnerships between foreign states and armed groups formed? Previous research has suggested that the provision of external support is mainly based on group capacity and affinity ties. However, this neglects the fact that support provision is a dynamic matching process in which strategic adjustments often are made that enable the distribution of support. I argue that states place demands on rebel groups who may strategically rebrand, reform, and reorganise to facilitate the distribution of support. For state sponsors, this process serves the dual purpose of justification and control. For rebels, the process distinguishes them from competitors and increases their chances of receiving vital aid. Drawing on frame analysis, I illustrate how the Syrian Democratic Forces crafted narratives in tandem with the United States which created the necessary conditions that helped initiate and sustain the partnership. The findings highlight the importance of the strategic alignment process and show how it can supplement existing explanations related to battlefield performances and transnational affinities.