The Syrian interim authority and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) signed a new ceasefire and integration agreement on Sunday aimed at ending hostilities and resolving long-standing security and administrative disputes in northern Syria.
According to media reports, the deal calls for an immediate, comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts and the withdrawal of SDF forces to areas east of the Euphrates River in preparation for redeployment.
Under the agreement, the interim authority will assume full administrative and military control over Raqqa and Deir al-Zour provinces, including all civil institutions and public facilities. Existing employees will be retained, and Damascus pledged not to pursue SDF fighters or civil administration personnel. Civil institutions in Hasakah province will also be integrated into state structures.
Damascus will take control of all border crossings and oil and gas fields in northeastern Syria, with its forces responsible for securing the facilities. SDF personnel will be individually incorporated into Damascus' military and security forces after security vetting, receiving official ranks, salaries, and benefits. The agreement also safeguards the administrative and social autonomy of Kurdish-majority areas.
Syrian army forces were seen patrolling areas previously held by Kurdish forces on Sunday.
"We are here in the city of Tabqa. By the grace of God Almighty, our people are welcoming the Syrian Arab Army under the Ministry of Defense and the Internal Security Forces under the Ministry of the Interior," said Abu Amir, a Syrian army officer.
The accord follows days of intense clashes in Raqqa and Deir al-Zour, where pro-Damascus forces advanced into key areas amid unrest and defections from SDF ranks.
On Saturday night, government forces secured strategic sites, including the city of Tabqa and Syria's largest dam. Tribal mobilization and clashes in Deir al-Zour prompted emergency measures and temporary closures of public institutions, highlighting the fragility of earlier 2025 integration efforts.
"Honestly, we were very afraid. We stayed inside our homes, not knowing where the shelling was coming from or where it would land," said Fawaz Al-Mousa, a Syrian civilian.
There were mixed emotions on the streets of Tabqa. Some residents tore down a statue of an SDF fighter, while others expressed relief that the fighting had finally come to an end.
"Honestly, my wish is not only for this city, but for all of Syria to be united - without division, sectarianism, decentralization, or federalism. I want Syria to be one country, brothers with a shared destiny. We have been part of Syria for 1,500 years. It is one homeland," said Ahmed Al-Qadrou, another civilian.
Syria's interim authority, Kurdish-led SDF sign ceasefire, integration deal
Syria's interim authority, Kurdish-led SDF sign ceasefire, integration deal
