Syria's government has reached a deal with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) militia alliance that would see the gradual integration of Kurdish forces and institutions into the state. This follows weeks of clashes which resulted in Syrian troops reclaiming large areas in the northeast previously controlled by the SDF for over a decade.
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack called it 'a profound and historic milestone in Syria's journey toward national reconciliation, unity, and enduring stability'. Earlier this month, the SDF agreed to a ceasefire after its significant territorial losses and continued to face clashes.
Similar to a prior agreement, the recent deal entails the SDF withdrawing from points of contact, joining the Syrian army, and integrating its administrative bodies into the state. The SDF also confirmed the establishment of a new military division comprising its members.
The agreement encompasses the formation of provisions for civil and educational rights for Kurdish people, ensuring the return of displaced individuals to their homes. Additionally, the deal includes the transfer of control over previously SDF-managed prisons, oil, and gas fields to the Syrian government, with the Omar oilfield being notably seized after the SDF's pullback.
The Kurds had held nearly a third of Syria's territory, supported by the U.S. in their efforts against the Islamic State. Their recent territorial losses signify the most substantial control change in the country following the overthrow of prior leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed leadership after the civil war, has consistently aimed for a united Syria. He recently decreed the recognition of Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights, marking a historic acknowledgment that hadn't occurred since Syria's independence in 1946.
U.S. envoy Tom Barrack called it 'a profound and historic milestone in Syria's journey toward national reconciliation, unity, and enduring stability'. Earlier this month, the SDF agreed to a ceasefire after its significant territorial losses and continued to face clashes.
Similar to a prior agreement, the recent deal entails the SDF withdrawing from points of contact, joining the Syrian army, and integrating its administrative bodies into the state. The SDF also confirmed the establishment of a new military division comprising its members.
The agreement encompasses the formation of provisions for civil and educational rights for Kurdish people, ensuring the return of displaced individuals to their homes. Additionally, the deal includes the transfer of control over previously SDF-managed prisons, oil, and gas fields to the Syrian government, with the Omar oilfield being notably seized after the SDF's pullback.
The Kurds had held nearly a third of Syria's territory, supported by the U.S. in their efforts against the Islamic State. Their recent territorial losses signify the most substantial control change in the country following the overthrow of prior leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed leadership after the civil war, has consistently aimed for a united Syria. He recently decreed the recognition of Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights, marking a historic acknowledgment that hadn't occurred since Syria's independence in 1946.
