News|Syria's WarSyria-SDF ceasefire hangs in balance after renewed clashes, faltering talksSyria’s government, Kurdish-led forces trade blame on violence, escaped ISIL fighters as negotiations reach dead end.
Recent developments in Syria indicate escalating tensions between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) following a ceasefire. Renewed confrontations have arisen, prompting the withdrawal of SDF forces from areas west…
Recent developments in Syria indicate escalating tensions between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) following a ceasefire. Renewed confrontations have arisen, prompting the withdrawal of SDF forces from areas west of the Euphrates River.
Discussions between Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF leader Mazloum Abdi in Damascus have stalled, leading Abdi to return to the northeastern region. The ceasefire agreement reached on Sun, Jan 18, 2026, requires the withdrawal of SDF forces from Raqqa and Deir Az Zor within one month.
Contention has emerged over the escape of ISIL prisoners from al-Shaddadi prison amidst the conflict. The Syrian Ministry of Interior reported that 130 out of 200 escapees were recaptured. The government accused the SDF of using the prison break as "political and security blackmail," while the SDF attributed the incident to an attack by tribal fighters aligned with the Syrian army.
The Syrian government expressed readiness to manage ISIL prisons in Hasakah according to international standards. The army secured al-Shaddadi in the Hasakah countryside, assuming control of the prison.
Recent developments in Syria indicate escalating tensions between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) following a ceasefire.
Military Operations and Security Concerns
The Syrian army commenced artillery operations around al-Aqtan prison and the SDF's 17th Division headquarters in Raqqa. Local sources indicated army advancement to the Panorama intersection in Hasakah province. The government warned against any actions that might facilitate ISIL detainee escapes, emphasizing the importance of adhering to state legitimacy and law enforcement.
Negotiation Attempts and International Involvement
Extended talks between al-Sharaa and Abdi ended without a resolution. The president proposed appointing Abdi as deputy defense minister and governor of Hasakah, contingent on deploying Syrian internal security forces to the city and removing Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) members from the territory. Abdi requested time for consultations, but al-Sharaa set a deadline, warning of military action if the proposal was not accepted.
Al-Sharaa discussed the situation with US President Donald Trump, emphasizing Syria’s territorial integrity and Kurdish rights. Washington, maintaining ties with both the SDF and Damascus, plays a crucial role in the ongoing crisis.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
