New agreement between Damascus and the SDF: Mazloum Abdi travels to Damascus
The agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF, which had remained unimplemented for months, has been revitalized following the visit of a delegation led by Mazloum Abdi to Damascus.
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The 8-point agreement signed between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in March 2025 had increased regional tensions after failing to be implemented within the designated timeframe. Turkey had announced that it would support potential military operations by the Damascus administration if the December 31, 2025, deadline granted to the SDF expired, effectively pressuring the parties to return to the negotiating table.
In the latest round of talks, a three-member SDF delegation led by Mazloum Abdi, including Sozdar Derik and Sîpan Hemo, met with the Syrian administration in Damascus. Following the meetings, it was reported that the discussions were positive, and it was stated that a new agreement would be officially signed today. The SDF announced that further details would be shared in the coming days.
Abu Omar al-Idlibi, commander of the Northern Democratic Brigade, provided significant details regarding the military restructuring. Stating that an agreement had been reached to integrate SDF forces into the Syrian army by forming three divisions and three brigades, al-Idlibi noted that the Women's Protection Units (YPJ) would be included in the new structure with a special status. It was stated that the YPJ would maintain its unique structure and operate as a separate brigade within the Syrian army. Furthermore, the draft agreement envisions the creation of a separate "Border Guard Brigade" for border security and an independent "Counter-Terrorism Brigade" for combating terrorism.
In this context, the implementation period of the previously signed March 10 agreement has been extended, and it was noted that regulations concerning the civilian administrative aspects of the process have been incorporated into the new agreement.
GUARANTORSHIP FROM THE US
Two key documents will serve as the basis for the implementation of the agreement. The first document covers strategic cooperation regarding the joint fight against ISIS. The second document will outline the military and legal roadmap for the integration of SDF fighters into the new divisions within the Syrian army.
It was stated that the signing ceremony would be held with the participation of international observers. In addition to Major General Kevin J. Lambert, commander of the US-led anti-ISIS coalition's Operation Inherent Resolve, high-ranking officials from the US military, the US Ambassador to Turkey, and Thomas Barrack, the US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for Syria, were among the names expected to be present at the ceremony.
While it was stated that these actors would assume a 'guarantor' role in the process, it was reported that the goal is to secure the process through both civilian and military contributions from the United States.