Syria declared a ceasefire agreement with Kurdish forces on Tuesday, providing them four days to discuss integrating into the central state. This move follows recent rapid government advancements and signals a significant shift in control since rebels ousted Bashar al-Assad over a year ago.
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack viewed the integration offer as a prime opportunity for the Kurds, emphasizing the rights to citizenship, cultural protections, and political participation. With the original purpose of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fulfilled, the U.S. expressed its lack of long-term interest in maintaining a presence in Syria.
The U.S. is closely monitoring the situation in Syria, urging all parties to engage in sincere negotiations. Emphasis was placed on exercising restraint to prevent further escalation and prioritizing the safety of civilians, especially minority groups.
The SDF acknowledged a ceasefire with the Syrian government, committing to refrain from military action unless provoked. A statement from the Syrian government outlined an agreement with the SDF for devising an integration plan in Hasakah province and potentially deploying state forces in SDF-controlled cities.
Northeast Syria, a region between Turkey and Iraq, is home to diverse ethnic groups and was previously under Islamic State control before the SDF, backed by a U.S.-led coalition, liberated it. The Kurdish YPG force within the SDF has raised concerns for Turkey due to its perceived ties to the PKK insurgency group.
Since Assad’s ousting, Syria has been led by former rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, fostering a close relationship with Turkey. The presence of SDF-guarded facilities, housing Islamic State militants and their affiliates, remains a global concern.
In a separate development, around 200 low-level Islamic State fighters escaped Shaddadi prison when the SDF withdrew, with many recaptured by Syrian government forces. The SDF also vacated the al-Hol camp housing jihadist-linked civilians near the Iraqi border.
The ongoing tensions between the SDF and Damascus escalated after disagreements over fighter and territory resolutions. The SDF agreed to withdraw from certain provinces, leading to government forces advancing into Hasakah province. Mediation efforts involving U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump’s administration, have been instrumental in navigating the conflict.
