Syria and Kurdish-Led SDF reach historic agreement to unify North-East region

Department of Research, Studies and International News 12-03-2025

In a significant step towards national unity, the Syrian government has reached an agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate the north-east region into the national framework. This accord marks a turning point, bringing the area under central government control for the first time since Kurdish authorities established autonomy in 2012 during the civil war.

The agreement, set to be implemented by the end of the year, transfers administrative and military authority over public institutions, including border crossings, airports, and oil fields, to the Syrian government. A key component of the deal is the formal recognition of Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights, an acknowledgment that marks a departure from past policies that restricted the Kurdish language in schools and banned Kurdish festivities.

Furthermore, the agreement ensures that all Syrians, irrespective of ethnic or religious background, will have a role in shaping the country’s political future.

A Major Milestone for Syria’s Transitional Leadership

This breakthrough is a crucial achievement for Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who prioritized negotiations with the SDF as part of efforts to restore state authority across the country. The deal also resolves lingering uncertainty about the future of the SDF following the removal of former president Bashar al-Assad on December 8. Assad was ousted by a coalition of rebel groups, led by the Islamist faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), leading to shifts in Syria’s power dynamics.

Tensions had remained high between the SDF and Turkish-backed rebel factions, now integrated into the Syrian army, since Assad’s removal. Regular skirmishes between these groups had intensified until the agreement was announced, signaling an end to hostilities. The news sparked celebrations, with crowds gathering in Raqqa and Damascus to express support for the newfound unity.

Recent Violence and Its Impact on the Agreement

The agreement comes at a turbulent time for Syria, as the country reels from recent violent clashes along the coastal region. The Syrian defense ministry recently declared the conclusion of military operations against Assad loyalists, following an offensive launched by pro-Assad forces against Syrian security units last Thursday.

The ensuing five-day conflict in north-west Syria resulted in a devastating death toll, with over 1,000 fatalities, including at least 745 civilians. Reports indicate that retaliatory attacks primarily targeted Alawite civilians in the affected areas.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights documented the tragic loss of life, reporting that pro-Assad forces were responsible for 211 civilian deaths and 172 casualties among security forces. In contrast, Syrian government forces reportedly killed 396 civilians, including unarmed detainees.

Addressing the recent violence, President al-Sharaa pledged accountability for all perpetrators, stating:

“We will ensure that anyone involved in harming civilians, abusing power, or violating state authority faces justice with full decisiveness.”

Despite these assurances, concerns remain regarding the SDF’s transition into the national military structure, as many within Syria’s Kurdish community remain wary due to a history of marginalization under previous regimes.

Broader Challenges: Southern Syria and Israeli Tensions

Beyond the Kurdish question, the Syrian government faces another complex issue in the south, where the Druze community has maintained autonomy under the country’s new leadership. Negotiations will be necessary to integrate the Druze region into the national fold, but external pressures complicate this effort.

Israel has issued warnings that it may intervene militarily if the central government takes any action against the Druze population. However, Druze leaders themselves have rejected the idea of foreign interference, emphasizing their desire for self-determination.

Tensions escalated further on Monday night when Israeli airstrikes targeted military installations in Daraa, a southern province, shortly after the Syrian government and the SDF signed their agreement. Syria TV, a state-affiliated broadcaster, confirmed the airstrikes but provided limited details on casualties or damage.

A Pivotal Moment for Syria’s Future

The integration of the north-east into Syria’s national framework marks a critical step toward rebuilding the country after years of conflict. While the agreement with the SDF represents progress, challenges remain, including addressing historical grievances, ensuring accountability for war crimes, and navigating regional geopolitical pressures.

As Syria moves forward under new leadership, the path to lasting stability will depend on successful political inclusion, reconciliation efforts, and managing tensions with both internal factions and external actors. Whether this deal leads to genuine peace or merely a temporary ceasefire remains to be seen.