The Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have reached an immediate ceasefire agreement after several days of intense clashes. According to the deal, the SDF will withdraw its forces from the western bank of the Euphrates River, and part of its fighters will be integrated into the Syrian army. The agreement was signed on Sunday, January 18, following days of heavy fighting between government troops and the SDF.

Under the terms of the agreement, the SDF will propose a list of its leaders for appointments to senior military, security, and civilian positions under the central government to ensure national partnership. Control of key facilities, including border crossings and oil and gas fields, will be handed over to the Syrian government. A similar understanding earlier in March had failed to materialize.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara stated that the deal would bring full administrative and military control of al-Hasakah, Deir ez-Zor, and Raqqa provinces under government authority. Jordan welcomed the ceasefire and integration agreement, calling it an important step toward strengthening Syria’s unity, stability, and security.