The United Nations Commission of Inquiry on Syria recently welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This agreement aims to foster stability in a region marked by prolonged conflict and humanitarian crises. Paulo Pinheiro, the chair of the Commission, expressed hopes for a complete end to hostilities and a sustainable resolution to ongoing challenges, particularly regarding humanitarian needs such as food, water, and electricity. Further details about the ceasefire can be found here.
The ceasefire includes an immediate halt to fighting and the withdrawal of military forces from the front lines. In city centers like Hasakah and Qamishli, military units will be replaced by security forces under the Ministry of Interior. The Autonomous Administration institutions will integrate into the Syrian state, maintaining the current civilian workforce while also addressing the civil and educational rights of the Kurdish community.
The agreement, according to the SDF, seeks to unify Syrian territory and bolster cooperation among the concerned parties, allowing for concerted efforts to rebuild the country. It also guarantees the safe return of displaced persons, a crucial step towards restoring normalcy.
The humanitarian dimension of this agreement is critical, as the UN Commission highlighted the urgent need for unimpeded delivery of aid and secure passage for civilians. The harsh winter conditions pose severe risks, especially given the shortages of essential resources. Reports have emerged of infants succumbing to freezing conditions in displacement camps, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
This ceasefire follows the downfall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024, after which the SDF took control of much of Northeast Syria, a region rich in resources. Previously, the SDF and the new Syrian Armed Forces signed a framework agreement, though disputes remained over the integration of SDF fighters.
Additionally, a report by the UN Syria Commission of Inquiry documented the widespread violence that has afflicted other parts of Syria, particularly in coastal and central western regions, further marking the importance of achieving peace and reconciliation in the northeast.