The Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Saturday evening an extension of their ceasefire for 15 days, allowing the U.S.-led transfer of ISIS detainees from Syrian prisons to Iraq to continue.
اضافة اعلان
The operation, managed by Washington, involves relocating thousands of detainees held in SDF-controlled facilities after the Syrian government regained control over parts of northern and northeastern Syria.
Originally, the ceasefire was set for four days ending Saturday night, but both sides agreed to extend it.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense stated:
"We announce the extension of the ceasefire across all sectors of the Syrian Arab Army’s operations for 15 days, starting at 23:00 (20:00 GMT), in support of the U.S. operation to evacuate ISIS prisoners from SDF prisons to Iraq."
The SDF confirmed the extension, noting it was mediated internationally and coincides with ongoing talks with Damascus. The SDF emphasized its commitment to the agreement to reduce escalation, protect civilians, and create conditions for stability.
ISIS Detainee Transfers and Juvenile Releases
The U.S. has begun moving up to 7,000 ISIS detainees from Syria to Iraq.
On Wednesday, a batch of 150 high-ranking ISIS members, including Europeans, was transferred from a Hasakah prison to Iraq.
Syrian authorities released at least 126 minors from Al-Aqtan prison in Raqqa after taking control from Kurdish forces.
Future of Kurdish Institutions
The ceasefire forms part of a broader agreement on the integration of Kurdish institutions in Hasakah province into government structures after SDF withdrawal from large areas of northern and eastern Syria.
Syrian forces will not enter the cities of Hasakah and Qamishli if the agreement proceeds.
Kurdish villages will remain free of government forces, except for local security forces.
SDF leader Mazloum Abdi may propose candidates for Deputy Minister of Defense and Governor of Hasakah, along with representatives for the People’s Assembly.
SDF proposals have been submitted via U.S. mediator Tom Barrack, including Kurdish oversight of border crossings to maintain regional security.
The SDF, primarily led by Kurds with some Arab fighters, played a crucial role in fighting ISIS, securing large swaths of northern and eastern Syria, including major oil fields, and establishing autonomous administration over the region. The SDF reportedly detained nearly 10,000 fighters, according to Amnesty International in August 2023.
AFP
