Damascus seals nationwide ceasefire with Kurdish-led forces
Damascus seals nationwide ceasefire with Kurdish-led forces
Syria announces a nationwide ceasefire with the Kurdish-led SDF, aiming to integrate forces into state institutions and restore government control across key regions.
An immediate nationwide ceasefire between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces has been announced, marking a pivotal step toward restoring government control in parts of the country. The deal aims to reassert state authority in three eastern and northern governorates: al-Hasakah, Deir Ezzor, and Raqqa.
Under a 14-point framework, the SDF would be integrated into Syria's military and state institutions, with civilian institutions, border crossings, and oil and gas fields brought under government control. The arrangement signals a major shift in governance on the ground and could pave the way for broader reconciliation efforts.
In Damascus, talks involving the government and SDF leadership were accompanied by remarks from the U.S. special envoy, who praised the accord as a step toward a unified Syria. Mazloum Abdi, the SDF commander, confirmed the talks and said he would share more details after returning from the capital, noting that the ceasefire had been agreed to avoid a broader war.
Historically, the SDF has governed large parts of northeast Syria with strong U.S. support, establishing a de facto Kurdish administration. The new agreement envisions folding these forces into national structures, a move that could ease tensions but faces skepticism about on-the-ground implementation.
Analysts say the deal could reshape regional power dynamics and reduce fighting, but many caution that delays or resistance from local actors could complicate the process. Civilians in affected areas await concrete steps to restore services, security, and stability as the ceasefire takes effect.
