Syria has declared a temporary halt in hostilities with Kurdish forces in the northeastern region, following recent swift advancements by the government and a shift in U.S. support. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by the United States, have been given four days to negotiate their integration into the central state.
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack praised the offer of citizenship rights, cultural protections, and political participation for the Kurds as a significant opportunity. He highlighted that the original purpose of the SDF, primarily combating the Islamic State with U.S. backing, has largely been fulfilled, indicating diminishing long-term U.S. interest in maintaining a presence in Syria.
The U.S. administration expressed deep concern over the situation in Syria and urged all parties to engage in sincere negotiations. The SDF confirmed their acceptance of a ceasefire with the Syrian government, committing to refrain from military actions unless provoked.
The Syrian government disclosed an agreement with the SDF to formulate an integration plan for Hasakah province and warned of potential military intervention if the SDF fails to comply. A four-day ceasefire starting Tuesday evening was announced, with the SDF requested to nominate a candidate for a key role in Damascus as part of the integration process.
Northeast Syria, a region shared by Kurds and Arabs, was previously under threat from the Islamic State before the SDF, with U.S.-led coalition support, reclaimed control. However, the dominance of the Kurdish YPG force within the SDF has raised concerns for Turkey, a U.S. ally viewing it as linked to the PKK, a group engaged in insurgency against Turkey.
Since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former rebel leader, has been leading Syria and strengthening ties with Turkey. The presence of SDF-guarded facilities holding Islamic State fighters and associated civilians in northeastern Syria poses international concerns.
Reports emerged that around 200 low-level Islamic State fighters escaped Shaddadi prison in northeast Syria amid the SDF’s departure, with many subsequently recaptured by Syrian government forces. The SDF also withdrew from the al-Hol camp, known for housing individuals linked to the jihadist group near the Iraqi border.
Tensions escalated between the SDF and Damascus over their fighters and territories, resulting in conflicts as the SDF resisted government demands. Following agreements to withdraw from certain provinces, government forces advanced into Hasakah province. Mediation efforts involving SDF commander Mazloum Abdi and Syrian leader Sharaa, with U.S. involvement, aimed at resolving the standoff between the parties.