The Syrian government has reached a significant agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), marking a formal ceasefire and a path for integration. This ceasefire comes after nearly two weeks of intense fighting and is part of a broader 14-point accord aimed at stabilizing the region.
Syria and SDF Ceasefire Agreement Details
The ceasefire was announced by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during a statement in Damascus. He emphasized that this agreement would allow Syrian state institutions to regain control over three crucial regions: al-Hasakah, Deir Ezzor, and Raqqa.
Key Components of the Agreement
- Integration of SDF into Syrian military and state institutions.
- Transfer of control over civilian institutions and border crossings.
- Management of oil and gas fields previously governed by Kurdish authorities.
- Inclusion of SDF military and security personnel in Syria’s defense and interior ministries after vetting.
- Recognition of Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights.
President al-Sharaa’s comments followed a meeting with Tom Barrack, the US special envoy to Syria. Barrack praised the ceasefire as a positive step toward achieving a unified Syria.
Impact on Kurdish Forces
SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi was expected to participate in the discussions but could not attend due to inclement weather, causing a delay in his visit.
Initially formed during Syria’s civil war, the SDF received substantial support from the United States, which armed and trained these forces as a local ally in the fight against the Islamic State group (ISIS). Under previous US backing, the SDF reclaimed significant portions of northeastern Syria and governed mixed Kurdish and Arab areas.
Future Responsibilities and Rights
Under the new agreement, the Syrian government will take over various responsibilities, including:
- Management of prisons and detention camps holding ISIS fighters and their families.
- Acknowledgment of Kurdish rights, including official language status for Kurdish and the celebration of the Kurdish New Year as a national holiday.
This marks the first formal recognition of Kurdish rights since Syria’s independence from France in 1946. Additionally, the agreement reaffirms Syria’s commitment to participate in the US-led coalition against ISIS.
The announcement of the ceasefire comes after prior negotiations stalled and follows recent movements of Syrian government forces into Raqqa and surrounding oil facilities. President al-Sharaa had previously stated that it was unacceptable for a militia to control a significant portion of the country and its primary resources.
