With the deadline for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to present a detailed plan for integration into Syrian state institutions now passed, questions arise regarding the Syrian government’s options and potential scenarios in northeastern Syria.
While a Syrian government source stated that the “truce with the SDF has ended, and the Syrian government is considering its options,” the situation remains unclear. However, Mohammed Taha al-Ahmad, Director of Arab Affairs at the Syrian Foreign Ministry, indicated that extending or ending the truce between the Syrian army and the SDF is contingent on the SDF’s response to the government’s demands.
Al-Ahmad added that the Syrian army’s troop deployments around Al-Hasakah are a response to SDF mobilizations. Ilham Ahmed, an official with the SDF’s self-administration, stated that discussions are underway with the Syrian government to extend the ceasefire but a final answer has not yet been received. She emphasized that communication channels remain open and outstanding issues can be resolved through dialogue.
According to political analyst Dr. Muayad Ghazlan Qablawi, while the government-granted truce has ended, an extension is possible, provided the SDF accepts the comprehensive agreement signed on January 18th. He described this agreement as a crucial bridge towards a final political solution, requiring the SDF to cease fire and halt what he termed recruitment, mobilization, and reliance on elements of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).
The January 18th agreement, signed by President Ahmad al-Shareh, stipulated a ceasefire and the full integration of the SDF into the Syrian army following security and military developments. It also mandated the integration of all civilian institutions in Al-Hasakah Governorate into state institutions and the withdrawal of SDF forces east of the Euphrates River in preparation for redeployment.
Qablawi believes the SDF has lost leverage, particularly regarding support from external powers, and has seen a reduction in its geographical and military structure.
