The Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have signed a comprehensive ceasefire agreement. This deal follows several days of heavy fighting in the north-eastern region.
It aims to restore state authority over strategic areas. The announcement was made in Damascus on Sunday after the capture of key infrastructure by the Syrian military.
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The agreement
The agreement requires the SDF to withdraw all military formations east of the Euphrates River. Syrian army units will now move into these former contact zones. This includes the provinces of Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa.
The government will take over all civilian institutions in these areas. SDF members will be integrated into the national defence and interior ministries. This process involves individual security vetting for all personnel.
Damascus will now manage all border crossings and major energy infrastructure. This includes the country’s largest oil and gas fields. The Syrian military recently seized the Omar oil field and the Conoco gas facility. These assets are crucial for the nation’s economic recovery.
While President Ahmed al-Sharaa described the deal as a victory for all Syrians, SDF leader Mazloum Abdi confirmed the group’s acceptance in a televised address. He stated the withdrawal was necessary to stop further bloodshed.
The deal also addresses long-standing social issues. A recent decree recognises Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights. It aims to protect the social particularities of Kurdish-majority areas. Hasakah province remains the heart and centre of the Kurdish population.
Image: Syrian government troops and local supporters celebrate after taking control of the town from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), in the Al-Naeem roundabout in the city centre of Raqqa, northeastern Syria, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. Credit: AP Photo/Omar Albam
