Syria and Kurds Extend Truce Amid Tensions and Turmoil

Despite ongoing tensions and disruptions, Syria and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have agreed to extend a ceasefire that allows the transfer of Islamic State (IS) detainees to Iraq to face prosecution, according to sources from The Hindu and Middle East Eye.

Background and Context

The ceasefire, which was extended by 15 days on January 24, 2026, came amidst a backdrop of territorial disputes, alleged ceasefire violations, and escalating humanitarian crises. As reported by Al Jazeera English and Japan Times, the Syrian military and the Kurdish-led SDF have accused each other of violating the truce. The ceasefire extension coincided with the arrival of a UN aid convoy in the Kurdish-majority town, Ain al-Arab, also known as Kobane, in Aleppo province, delivering much-needed food and fuel supplies.

Detainee Transfers and Rising Tensions

Adding to the complex situation, Middle East Eye reported that Iraq has announced it will prosecute IS detainees transferred from Syria under its judicial authority, regardless of the detainees' nationality or their position within the group. This comes as part of a US-brokered deal, following the release of IS fighters from the al-Shaddadi prison in northeast Syria, a move described as political and security blackmail by Syria's Interior Ministry, as reported by Middle East Eye.

Reactions and Implications

Echoing the mixed reactions on the ground, international responses have been varied. As reported by Fox News, a video showing a Syrian militiaman holding what he claims to be a severed braid from a Kurdish fighter sparked outrage and protests, highlighting Kurdish fears of what Syrian government control could mean for their communities. This fear has been echoed by US Senator Lindsey Graham and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who both issued warnings about the need to protect the Kurdish population.

However, US Ambassador Tom Barrack stated that the security partnership between the US and the SDF has largely expired, indicating a shift in US policy, as reported by Middle East Eye. This shift has sparked protests across Kurdish regions, condemning US inaction as Syrian forces advanced, as reported by Middle East Eye.

Current Status

Despite the extended ceasefire, the situation remains fluid and tense. The Times of Israel reported that talks between Syria and the Kurdish-led SDF have collapsed, and conflicts have resumed in some areas. Amid the chaos, at least 120 inmates managed to escape from a Kurdish-controlled prison, further complicating the situation.

In the face of such instability, the future of Syria's relationship with the Kurdish-led SDF, as well as the fate of the IS detainees, remains uncertain. With international attention and concern growing, the world watches and waits for the next developments in this ongoing saga.