Syrian government, SDF agree to ceasefire and state integration

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced on January 18 a comprehensive ceasefire and full integration agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), setting out broad measures aimed at restoring state authority in northeastern Syria.

The agreement establishes an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts and contact lines between Syrian government forces and the SDF.

The ceasefire is to take effect alongside the withdrawal of all SDF-affiliated military formations to areas east of the Euphrates River, a move described as a preparatory step for their subsequent redeployment.

Under the agreement, the provinces of Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa will be transferred fully and immediately to the Syrian government, both administratively and militarily. This transfer includes all civilian institutions and public facilities operating in the two provinces.

The agreement further stipulates that current employees in Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa will be formally retained within the relevant Syrian state ministries. It also provides assurances that no punitive measures will be taken against SDF personnel or members of the local civil administration in either province.

In addition, the deal calls for the integration of all civilian institutions in Hasakah province into Syrian state institutions and administrative structures.

As part of the overall arrangement, the Syrian government will assume control of all border crossings, as well as oil and gas fields in the region. These sites will be secured by Syrian government forces to ensure that revenues are returned to the state.

By Tamilla Hasanova