A ceasefire between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led fighters has been extended for another 15 days, according to Syria’s defense ministry. The extension, announced Saturday, came hours after the expiration of a previous four-day truce.
Ceasefire Extension and U.S. Operations
The Syrian defense ministry stated the extension is intended to facilitate an operation by U.S. forces to transfer accused Islamic State militants held in prisons in northeastern Syria to detention centers in Iraq. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have confirmed their commitment to the extended ceasefire.
Prior to the truce, intense clashes between government forces and the SDF resulted in the SDF losing control of territory. The SDF had earlier called on the international community to work to prevent further escalation. Government forces had also been observed sending reinforcements to northeastern Syria.
The current agreement stipulates that SDF members will be integrated into the army and police forces as individuals. Despite this agreement, the SDF reported observing military buildups and logistical movements by government forces, which they interpret as a potential intent to escalate the conflict.
Alongside the ceasefire extension, 126 boys under the age of 18 were released Saturday from the al-Aqtan prison near Raqqa, which was recently taken by government forces. The teenagers were handed over to their families.
The al-Aqtan prison, and others in the region, hold approximately 9,000 members of the Islamic State group. While government forces have taken control of two prisons, the majority remain under SDF control. The U.S. military has stated plans to transfer around 7,000 IS detainees to facilities in Iraq, with 150 prisoners already moved as of Wednesday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the initial ceasefire?
The initial four-day ceasefire was declared Tuesday following a new version of an accord signed last weekend between Syria’s interim government and the SDF. The agreement included provisions for territory handover and the integration of SDF fighters.
How many IS detainees are currently held in Syria?
Approximately 9,000 members of the Islamic State group are currently held in prisons in northeastern Syria, most of which are run by the SDF.
What is the stated purpose of transferring detainees to Iraq?
The U.S. military stated the transfer of approximately 7,000 IS detainees to detention centers in Iraq is an ongoing operation.
As the transfer of detainees continues, and with government forces maintaining a military presence in the northeast, the situation remains fluid. Further escalation could occur if the SDF’s concerns regarding government troop movements prove accurate, though the SDF has affirmed its commitment to upholding the truce.
