CENTCOM urges Syria to honor ceasefire amid Daesh transfers
US Central Command said its commander, Adm. Brad Cooper, discussed ceasefire compliance and coordination on the transfer of Daesh detainees with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The call focused on avoiding disruptions to the planned relocation of thousands of detainees, as Damascus reported deadly violations during the first day of a truce with the YPG/SDF.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Adm. Brad Cooper held a phone call on Wednesday with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa to address adherence to a ceasefire and cooperation on the transfer of Daesh detainees, CENTCOM said. The discussion comes as Washington advances plans to move detainees from northeastern Syria, a process with significant security implications for the region, including areas bordering Türkiye.
Ceasefire compliance highlighted
CENTCOM spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins said Cooper emphasized the need for the Syrian government to “adhere to a ceasefire” with the YPG/SDF terror group. During the call, Cooper outlined CENTCOM’s approach for an orderly and secure transfer of up to 7,000 detainees and set expectations that Syrian forces and all other armed actors avoid actions that could interfere with the operation.
Focus on defeating Daesh
According to the statement, both leaders reaffirmed a shared commitment to the lasting defeat of Daesh in Syria. CENTCOM said preventing a Daesh resurgence would improve security for the United States, the region and the wider international community, underscoring the importance of maintaining stable detention arrangements during the transfer process.
Advertisement
Detainee transfers to Iraq
CENTCOM previously announced the launch of a mission to relocate Daesh detainees from northeastern Syria to Iraq to ensure they remain in secure facilities. The move is intended to reduce risks associated with overcrowded or contested detention sites amid shifting control lines on the ground.
Violations reported despite truce
Damascus earlier declared a four-day ceasefire with the YPG/SDF, effective Tuesday evening, following what the presidency described as a “mutual understanding” on the future of Hasakah province. Syrian state media, however, reported that at least 11 soldiers were killed and more than 25 wounded on the first day of the truce, accusing the SDF of carrying out drone strikes, artillery fire and ground attacks on army positions in Hasakah and eastern Aleppo provinces.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.