In a landmark agreement, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander Mazloum Abdi have signed a deal integrating civil and military institutions in northern and eastern Syria into the central government. The agreement, announced by the Syrian Arab Republic’s presidency, emphasizes Syria’s territorial unity and rejects any form of division.
Key Provisions of the Agreement
The deal, which consists of eight main provisions, guarantees the rights of all Syrians to political participation, recognizes the Kurdish community as an integral part of Syria, and ensures their constitutional and citizenship rights. A nationwide ceasefire is also included, alongside plans for the return of displaced Syrians with state-provided protection.
Additionally, all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria—including border crossings, airports, and oil and gas fields—will come under state administration. The agreement mandates the formation of executive committees to oversee its implementation by the end of the year.
SDF leader Abdi hailed the agreement as a “real opportunity to build a new Syria that embraces all its components and ensures good neighborliness.” The Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for national partnership and political justice. Abdi reaffirmed acceptance of President Sharaa’s leadership, Syria’s new flag, and the country’s territorial integrity, emphasizing the need for a unified army and a single institutional framework.
He insisted the SDF should be integrated into the Ministry of Defense (MOD) but with influence over military strategy and implementation. Abdi advocated for decentralized governance across all regions. While stating that Damascus is open to discussing Kurdish rights, specifics remain undecided. He ruled out cooperation with Iran but expressed willingness to collaborate with the MOD in fighting ISIS.
Regional & International Reactions
The deal has been met with widespread approval across Syria, with celebrations breaking out in Deir Ezzor, Hasaka, Raqqa, Hama, Damascus, and Aleppo. Crowds gathered in major public squares, waving Syrian flags and expressing support for the agreement, while security forces were deployed in cities such as Tartous to manage the festivities.
Neighboring Jordan welcomed the agreement as a step toward Syria’s sovereignty and stability. Jordanian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ambassador Sufian Qudah reaffirmed the country’s support for Syria in overcoming its transitional phase. Qatar and Saudi Arabia also praised the move, with both nations emphasizing the importance of a unified Syrian state.
Strategic Implications
The agreement marks a significant victory for the Syrian government, strengthening its influence in the northeast while reaffirming its commitment to national unity. The deal also positions President Sharaa as a leader focused on consolidating Syria after years of conflict.
Sources indicate that US officials played a role in facilitating the agreement, particularly as American military leaders signaled a potential troop withdrawal from Syria. The deal comes amid heightened security concerns following a deadly attack in the coastal region, further reinforcing the importance of national cohesion.
With executive committees set to begin their work, analysts see the agreement as a pivotal step in stabilizing Syria’s economy and security. The move also strengthens Damascus’ standing in international diplomacy, potentially aiding efforts to ease Western sanctions.
