Syria declared a ceasefire with Kurdish forces on Tuesday, giving them four days to agree to integrate into the central state. This move follows recent government advances and the apparent withdrawal of U.S. support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), marking a significant shift in control since rebels ousted Bashar al-Assad 13 months ago.
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack described the integration offer as a great opportunity for the Kurds, emphasizing that the original purpose of the SDF, supported by the U.S. in battling Islamic State, has largely been fulfilled. The U.S. expressed concern over the situation in Syria and urged all parties to negotiate in good faith.
The SDF accepted a ceasefire agreement with the Syrian government, committing not to engage in military action unless provoked. The Syrian government announced a four-day ceasefire and requested the SDF to propose a candidate for the role of assistant to the defense minister in Damascus as part of the integration plan for Hasakah province.
Northeast Syria, situated between Turkey and Iraq, is a region home to Kurds and Arabs. The area was previously controlled by Islamic State fighters before the SDF, supported by the U.S.-led coalition, drove them out. The Kurdish YPG force, a key component of the SDF, has posed concerns for Turkey, viewing it as linked to the PKK group.
Since Assad’s ousting in December 2024, Syria has been led by former rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has aligned closely with Turkey. The situation in northeast Syria remains sensitive to Ankara due to the presence of SDF-guarded facilities holding Islamic State militants and associated civilians.
About 200 low-level Islamic State fighters escaped Shaddadi prison in northeast Syria when the SDF withdrew, with many recaptured by Syrian government forces. The SDF also pulled out from al-Hol camp near the Iraqi border. Syrian government forces advanced in Hasakah province and near Kobani, while the SDF retains control of Hasakah City and Qamishli.
Tensions between the SDF and Damascus escalated due to disagreements over the group’s fighters and territory. Following SDF’s agreement to withdraw from Raqqa and Deir al-Zor, government forces moved into Hasakah province. Mediation efforts by the U.S., closely involved in negotiations, aim to resolve the conflict between the SDF and the Syrian government.