Syria’s transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced a ceasefire agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the full integration of SDF units into the Syrian army following government advances in eastern Syria, including Raqqa and Deir el-Zour provinces.
The agreement covers military, security, and administrative arrangements, with senior SDF officials set to assume high-ranking positions in state institutions. The SDF will relinquish control of Raqqa, Deir el-Zour, border crossings, and oil and gas fields, while Hassakah Province will return civilian administration to Damascus.
The deal comes after escalating tensions earlier this month and a military push by government forces into key SDF-held areas. U.S. envoy Tom Barrack welcomed the agreement, describing it as a “pivotal inflection point” for unity and cooperation in Syria.
Implementation will be gradual, beginning with a cessation of hostilities. The SDF has largely withdrawn from recently contested areas, including Tabqa, and government forces have consolidated control over major infrastructure and energy resources.
President al-Sharaa stated: “It’s a victory for all Syrians of all backgrounds. Hopefully Syria will end its state of division and move to a state of unity and progress.”
