Syrian Government, SDF Announce Ceasefire and Integration Deal
On Sunday, January 18, the Syrian government and the Kurdish‑led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced a comprehensive ceasefire and integration agreement that marks a significant shift in the conflict dynamics in northeastern Syria. The agreement was confirmed by Syrian state media and major international outlets.
Under the terms of the deal, an immediate and nationwide ceasefire across all fronts between Syrian government forces and the SDF will take effect, with both sides committing to halt hostilities following recent clashes in the northeast.
The agreement includes the withdrawal of SDF forces to areas east of the Euphrates River as a preparatory step for redeployment and redeployment of Syrian state authority in contested areas.
A key component of the deal is the full transfer of administrative and military control of the provinces of Raqqa and Deir al‑Zor to the Syrian government, including the handover of civilian institutions and facilities previously under SDF control.
The Syrian government will also assume control of all border crossings and oil and gas fields in the northeast — areas that were long administered by the SDF — with the aim of restoring state revenues and central governance.
In addition, the agreement envisages the integration of civilian institutions in Hasakah province into Syrian state institutions and the individual integration of SDF personnel into the Syrian military and security forces after security vetting, a point highlighted in official reports.
The deal has attracted international attention: the United States welcomed the ceasefire and the prospects for dialogue, while Turkey expressed hope that the agreement would advance regional stability.
Implementation of the agreement is expected to proceed in stages, and observers say its success will depend on adherence by both sides and broader political developments in the country’s long‑running conflict.
