Summary
Syrian government forces, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, have taken control of the cities of Raqqa and Deir Az Zor from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This has led to a change in dynamics, as the SDF agrees to integrate its fighters into the Syrian armed forces, while keeping some leadership roles.
Key Facts
- Syrian government forces have taken Raqqa and Deir Az Zor from the SDF in northeast Syria.
- President Ahmed al-Sharaa is leading Syria and negotiating with the SDF for integration of its forces.
- A ceasefire was agreed upon, but clashes continued in the Hasakah region of northeast Syria.
- The Kurdish-led SDF sought some form of autonomy and recognition of Kurdish rights during negotiations.
- Syrian President al-Sharaa issued a decree recognizing Kurdish as a national language and restoring citizenship to Kurdish Syrians.
- The United States, which previously supported the SDF, has now backed Syrian government forces.
- There are ongoing discussions about how to integrate the SDF fighters into the Syrian forces, with individual integration likely.
- Integrating up to 80,000 SDF soldiers poses a security challenge, according to analysts.
