Syrian government signs breakthrough deal with Kurdish-led forces

In a major political shift, Syria’s new government has reached a historic agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to merge military and civil institutions by the end of the year.

The deal hands Damascus control over vital oil and gas fields and commits the SDF to fighting Assad regime remnants while ensuring political representation for all Syrians.

The agreement comes as clashes in Syria’s coastal region have left over 1,300 dead, adding urgency to the effort to unify the war-torn country.

With US support for Kurdish forces uncertain, the SDF saw its negotiating position weaken, leading to the breakthrough. As news of the deal spread, celebrations erupted in northeastern Syria, where many feared attacks from Turkey and Damascus.

The move marks a significant turning point in Syria’s ongoing transition.