Syria: Government Forces Gain Control Over Kurdish Territories Amid Ceasefire
In a significant shift in Syria's decade-long conflict, the Syrian government, led by Interim President Ahmad al‑Sharaa, has announced a ceasefire with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) following weeks of intense clashes. This development comes amidst the government's extensive territorial gains in the north and east, previously held by the SDF. The ceasefire and territorial gains have been seen as part of a broader plan by the transitional government to reassert its control over the war-torn country.
Background and Context
The SDF, a key US ally in the fight against ISIS, had controlled large swathes of territory in northeastern Syria for over a decade. However, tensions escalated recently following clashes in Aleppo and Raqqa, leading to negotiations orchestrated by the United States. As a result, the SDF withdrew from territories west of the Euphrates they had seized over a year ago. In return, President Al-Charaa issued a decree recognizing the Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights, marking the first such formal recognition since 1946.
Key Developments
Government forces have made significant advances, seizing 34 villages and towns in the region, including crucial locations such as Deir Hafer, Tabqa, and Maskana. The Syrian army also gained control of the Euphrates hydroelectric power station and Syria's largest oil field. In response to these developments, Kurdish political parties have called for full constitutional recognition, legal guarantees, and a form of autonomy in northern Syria.
However, the SDF accused the Syrian forces of treachery
and breaching the withdrawal agreement. These allegations were supported by reports of intense clashes in Aleppo and Raqqa and the displacement of thousands of civilians as a result of the fighting. Some Republican senators have condemned alleged human rights abuses by the Syrian army during these operations.
Implications and Reactions
The recent developments have led to increased regional pressure, with countries like Turkey warning that Damascus could resort to military force against the SDF. The United States has urged for de-escalation while supporting Damascus's stance against the Kurdish coalition. Amidst these tensions, the Syrian authorities agreed on an immediate nationwide ceasefire with the SDF, taking almost full control of the country.
The ceasefire and territorial gains have significantly weakened the SDF, leaving them short of territory and strategic resources. The agreement mandates that the SDF integrate into government institutions, allowing the central authorities to assert civilian control over previously contested areas.
Current Status
In the current context, the ceasefire and the subsequent reorganization of control represent a major turning point in Syria's ongoing conflict. The Syrian government appears to be extending its grip over previously Kurdish-run areas, dismantling the forces that controlled the northeast for over a decade.
However, this shift has not been without controversy, with accusations of human rights abuses and reports of civilian displacement. The situation remains fluid, and the long-term impact of these developments on the Kurdish issue in Syria remains to be seen.