Syrian army withdraws from Hasakah outskirts under deal with SDF

The Syrian Army has started withdrawing its units from the outskirts of the northeastern city of Hasakah, in accordance with a recent agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Syria's Army Operations Command announced the move on Tuesday, stating that internal security forces have been deployed in the areas from which the military has pulled back.

Implementation of a phased agreement

This withdrawal follows the entry of Syrian security forces into the city of Qamishli last week under what state media described as a "comprehensive agreement." The deal, reached in late January, includes a ceasefire and outlines a phased integration process for SDF-controlled areas into the Syrian state's administrative and security framework. The Operations Command noted that the SDF is adhering to the agreement and has taken "positive steps," with authorities monitoring the situation to determine the next phase.

Political context and military operations

The agreement comes after a series of military operations by the Syrian Army, supported by tribal forces, which began in mid-January and succeeded in bringing most territories previously held by the SDF west and east of the Euphrates River under government control. Politically, the process was preceded by a presidential decree affirming that Syrian Kurds are an integral part of the national fabric, a move seen as addressing identity concerns within the framework of Syrian unity.

Strategic implications for Syria and the region

The unfolding integration represents a significant shift in Syria's decade-long conflict, potentially ending the autonomous administration of northeastern Syria by the SDF, which Türkiye designates as a terrorist group linked to the PKK. For Damascus, it marks a step toward reasserting sovereignty over a strategically important region. The outcome will be closely watched by regional actors, including Türkiye, which has national security concerns regarding any arrangement that consolidates the presence of the YPG/PKK-affiliated forces along its border.