SDF Commander reveals the latest developments in negotiations with the Syrian government
The commander of the Syria Democratic Forces, Mazloum Abdi, stressed that the current period of calm is an important opportunity to push the implementation of the January 18 agreement forward, stressing the readiness of his forces to implement its terms within a short time.
Abdi explained that work is underway to invest the truce in achieving practical steps on the ground, pointing out that there are preliminary understandings on a number of issue, although the final agreement hasn’t yet been fully resolved.
He added that channels of communication are still open on a daily basis with the Syrian government, pointing out that the United States is participating in the negotiations through its political and military institutions.
He pointed out that the SDF has submitted proposals with names to assume official positions, including positions such as assistant defense minister and governor of Hasakah, but an agreed list hasn’t yet been reached.
Abdi also pointed out that Kurdish political leaders in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq and Türkiye are providing political support at this critical stage, which he described as sensitive and crucial.
Regarding the situation on the ground, Abdi said that his forces asked government forces not to enter the Kurdish-majority villages, stressing that the government side showed understanding and agreed to this request, given the sensitivity of the issue.
Any arrangements reached in the Kurdish areas of northeastern Syria will also be implemented in areas such as Afrin and Sari Kaniyeh, he said.
The SDF commander stressed that all violations will be addressed through legal channels, while calling for not being drawn into hate speech or sectarianism.
He added that the Kurdish areas in Syria represent a redline, warning that any open confrontation won’t lead to the victory of any party.
On Saturday evening, the Syrian government and the Syria Democratic Forces announced the extension of the ceasefire agreement for an additional 15 days, to allow for the completion of the US-led operation to transfer ISIS prisoners to Iraq.
Its noteworthy that on January 18, 2026, the two parties signed an agreement that stipulates a ceasefire and the integration of SDF elements and institutions within the Syrian state institutions, but the government later accused the organization of committing violations that it described as a dangerous escalation.
The agreement followed a military operation carried out by the Syrian army, during which it was able to retake large areas in the east and northeast of the country, after mutual accusations of violating a previous agreement signed in March 2025.
