Damascus: The Syrian Army on Saturday stated that the YPG/SDF is bringing PKK reinforcements from Iraq’s Qandil Mountains into the northeastern province of Hasakah, as reported by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). The army’s Operations Command highlighted that the SDF had transferred these reinforcements from PKK terrorist militias to areas under its control in Al-Hasakah Governorate.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Syrian Army accused the SDF of committing ‘widespread violations’ in these areas, including arrests, forced displacement, and torture of individuals opposing its policies. The military issued a warning to the SDF and PKK against continuing provocations and spreading false claims through selectively edited video footage. This statement followed the Syrian government’s announcement of the end of a four-day truce with the SDF, prompting considerations of future actions.
Earlier in the week, the Defense Ministry stated that the ceasefire with the SDF began on Tuesday at 8 pm local time (1700 GMT), aiming to reduce tensions while discussions were underway. Meanwhile, the Syrian presidency revealed that a ‘mutual understanding’ with the SDF had been reached concerning the future of eastern Hasakah province.
As part of this understanding, the SDF was allotted four days to conduct consultations and prepare a ‘detailed plan for practical integration of the areas.’ If an agreement is reached, Syrian forces will avoid entering city centers in Hasakah and Qamishli, opting to remain on the outskirts instead. The presidency confirmed that both parties agreed on integrating all SDF military and security forces into the Syrian ministries of defense and interior, with continuing consultations on technical specifics.
The statement also mentioned that SDF head Mazloum Abdi would propose a candidate for deputy defense minister and another for Hasakah governor. Additionally, the group is expected to provide lists of nominees for representation in the People’s Assembly and for roles within various state institutions. Syrian forces will refrain from entering Kurdish villages, with only local security units, comprised of area residents, maintaining a presence.