Mazloum Abdi, leader of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), is set to travel to Damascus on 19 January 2026 to finalize a landmark agreement with Syria's interim authority. The deal, signed on 18 January, aims to end hostilities and integrate SDF-held territories into state structures while preserving Kurdish-majority regions' administrative autonomy.
In a televised address, Abdi emphasized the SDF's withdrawal from Raqqa and Deir al-Zour provinces as a measure to 'prevent further civilian casualties.' The agreement mandates an immediate ceasefire and SDF redeployment east of the Euphrates River, with Damascus assuming control of border crossings, oil fields, and civil institutions in key provinces.
Key Provisions
The accord outlines security vetting for SDF fighters joining state forces, retention of local civil servants, and guarantees for Kurdish cultural rights. Notably, prisons holding Islamic State detainees will transition to interim authority control, while non-Syrian PKK members face expulsion.
Fragile Context
This breakthrough follows intense clashes in late 2025, including pro-Damascus advances into Tabqa and Syria's largest dam. Analysts view the deal as Damascus' most comprehensive effort since 2025 to consolidate authority in the northeast, though challenges remain in reconciling tribal dynamics and displaced populations.
Syrian officials confirmed implementation has already begun, with frontlines quieting since 18 January. However, questions linger about timelines for civilian returns to contested areas like Afrin and the practicalities of shared security governance.
