Qamishli, Syria – A 15-day extension to a ceasefire between the Syrian government and Kurdish forces took effect late Saturday, offering a temporary pause in escalating tensions. The original four-day ceasefire expired Saturday night.
Rising Tensions and Shifting Alliances
The extension comes after two weeks of rapid territorial gains by President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s forces against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Sharaa’s government had given the SDF until Saturday night to integrate with the Syrian army or face renewed conflict.
Prior to the extension, the SDF accused the government of escalating the conflict through military build-ups, while a Syrian official stated the SDF had not responded to attempts at communication. The ceasefire extension was announced by Syria’s defense ministry, citing support for an ongoing U.S. operation to transfer Islamic State detainees to Iraq.
International Involvement
The agreement reportedly followed international mediation, with the SDF stating dialogue with Damascus continues. The U.S. and France have urged Sharaa to avoid further advances into Kurdish-held areas, citing concerns about potential abuses against civilians, according to diplomatic sources.
The U.S. has been involved in “shuttle diplomacy” to facilitate the integration of the SDF – formerly a key U.S. partner – into Sharaa’s government. This comes as the U.S. military continues to transfer hundreds of detained Islamic State fighters from SDF-run prisons in Syria to Iraq.
The current situation is described as the culmination of rising tensions over the past year. Sharaa has vowed to bring all of Syria under state control, a goal resisted by Kurdish authorities who have maintained autonomous institutions for a decade. Government forces launched an offensive this month after a merger deadline passed without progress, capturing Arab-majority provinces and key resources, including oil fields and facilities holding Islamic State detainees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the initial ceasefire?
Sharaa’s forces announced a ceasefire after rapidly gaining territory from the SDF, giving them until Saturday night to integrate with the Syrian army or resume fighting.
Why is the U.S. transferring Islamic State detainees to Iraq?
The U.S. military is transferring hundreds of detained Islamic State fighters from Syrian prisons formerly run by the SDF across the border into Iraq, coinciding with the ceasefire extension.
What concerns have been raised by the U.S. and France?
Senior U.S. and French officials have urged Sharaa not to send troops into remaining Kurdish-held areas, fearing renewed fighting could lead to mass abuses against Kurdish civilians.
Given the complex dynamics at play, will this latest ceasefire hold, or is it merely a temporary reprieve before further conflict?
