Ceasefire Extended Between Syrian Government and SDF for Another 15 Days

Damascus. The ceasefire implemented between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has been extended for another 15 days. The Syrian Ministry of Defense announced the new decision just hours after the four-day ceasefire expired on Saturday.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the ceasefire extension is to facilitate the U.S. military's campaign to transfer Islamic State (IS) alleged militants held in northeastern Syria to detention centers in Iraq. Confirming the extension of the ceasefire, the SDF expressed its commitment to fully comply with the agreement. A statement issued by the SDF mentioned that the ceasefire would help reduce tensions, ensure the safety of civilians, and create the necessary environment for regional stability.

Intense clashes occurred between the Syrian government forces and the SDF over the past three weeks, during which the SDF reportedly lost a significant amount of territory it controlled. Meanwhile, the Kurdish-led force had urged the international community to intervene to prevent potential escalations in tension. As the ceasefire was nearing its end, reports emerged that government forces were sending additional troops and materials to northeastern Syria.

Last March, the interim Syrian government reached an agreement with the SDF, consenting to hand over the territory under its control to the government and eventually integrate its fighters into the government forces. However, fighting reignited after new talks at the beginning of January failed to reach an agreement. Following the signing of a new version of the agreement over the weekend, a four-day ceasefire was again declared. The new agreement stipulates that SDF members must integrate individually into the army and police forces.