Syria declared a ceasefire with Kurdish forces on Tuesday, giving them four days to agree on integrating 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 Bashar al-Assad was ousted by rebels 13 months ago.
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack highlighted the opportunity for Kurds to integrate into the Syrian state, emphasizing citizenship rights, cultural protection, and political participation. He stated that the original purpose of the SDF, supported by the U.S. in combating the Islamic State, has largely been fulfilled, and the U.S. has no long-term interest in maintaining a presence in Syria.
The U.S. expressed “grave concern” over developments in Syria and urged all parties to engage in negotiations in good faith. The SDF accepted a ceasefire with the Damascus government, agreeing not to engage in military actions unless provoked.
Northeast Syria, a region populated by Kurds and Arabs, was previously controlled by the Islamic State before the SDF, with U.S.-led air support, pushed them back. The Kurdish YPG force, a key component of the SDF, raised concerns for Turkey, viewing it as linked to the PKK, an insurgent group in Turkey.
Following Assad’s removal in December 2024, Syria has been led by former rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has become a close ally of Turkey. The situation in northeast Syria remains sensitive, especially due to the presence of SDF-guarded facilities holding Islamic State militants and associated civilians.
Approximately 200 low-level Islamic State fighters escaped from Shaddadi prison as the SDF left the area, with many being recaptured by Syrian government forces. The SDF also withdrew from al-Hol camp, which housed civilians linked to the jihadist group.
Tensions between the SDF and Damascus escalated due to disagreements over the fate of fighters and territory. The SDF agreed to withdraw from Raqqa and Deir al-Zor provinces, and government forces moved into Hasakah province. Mediation efforts involving the United States have been ongoing to address the conflict between the SDF and Damascus.