Syrian Government Takes Control of Al-Aqtan Prison Amid Kurdish Withdrawal

On January 20, 2026, Syrian government forces assumed control of Al-Aqtan prison, located north of Raqqa, previously managed by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This transition followed a negotiated withdrawal of approximately 800 SDF fighters, who evacuated the facility as part of a broader agreement aimed at integrating SDF forces into the Syrian state. The takeover of Al-Aqtan marks the second prison to fall under government control in recent weeks, following the capture of Shaddadi prison, where a significant number of Islamic State (IS) detainees escaped during the chaos.

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The SDF has been the primary military force combating IS in Syria since 2015, capturing vast territories and managing numerous detention facilities. However, recent military offensives by the Syrian government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, have resulted in significant territorial losses for the SDF. The rapid advances by government forces have prompted a reevaluation of the SDF's role, with U.S. officials indicating that the SDF's function as the main anti-IS force has "largely expired."

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The recent developments stem from a ceasefire agreement signed on January 18, 2026, which aimed to facilitate the integration of SDF forces into the Syrian military and government structures. The agreement was reached amid stalled negotiations and escalating military tensions. The U.S. has shifted its support from the SDF to the Syrian government, reflecting a significant change in its foreign policy stance. U.S. envoy Tom Barrack stated that the Syrian government is now positioned to take over security responsibilities, including the management of IS detention facilities.

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The SDF's withdrawal from Al-Aqtan and other facilities has drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly regarding the potential security risks associated with the transfer of IS detainees. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of detainee escapes during the transition, with the European Union expressing alarm over the situation. Kurdish leaders have voiced feelings of betrayal by the U.S., which they believe has abandoned them in favor of the Syrian government.

Syrian government takes over prison from Kurdish-led SDF, amid focus on ISIS inmates

The Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed the takeover of Al-Aqtan prison and stated that specialized teams have been formed to manage the facility and ensure security. Meanwhile, the SDF has expressed its commitment to the ceasefire and indicated readiness to engage in discussions regarding the integration process. The U.S. military has begun transferring IS detainees to Iraq, with plans to move up to 7,000 individuals, reflecting ongoing concerns about the security of detention facilities in Syria.

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As the situation evolves, the SDF faces critical decisions regarding its future role within the Syrian state. The integration process is expected to unfold over the coming weeks, with both sides needing to negotiate the terms of governance and security in the remaining Kurdish-held areas. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the Kurdish population in Syria and the broader regional dynamics concerning Kurdish autonomy and rights.

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While the Syrian government claims to have regained control of significant territories, reports indicate that the SDF has retreated to Kurdish-majority areas, raising questions about the stability of the ceasefire and the potential for renewed conflict. The exact number of IS detainees remaining in Al-Aqtan prison and the implications of their transfer to Iraq remain unclear, highlighting gaps in the information available regarding the situation on the ground.

Syrian forces take control of prison holding IS detainees after Kurdish fighters evacuate

• “the original purpose of the SDF as the primary anti-ISIS force on the ground has largely expired, as Damascus is now both willing and positioned to take over security responsibilities, including control of ISIS detention facilities and camps.” — Tom Barrack, U.S. Envoy

A vast Syrian camp for ISIS families faces an uncertain fate after a security handover

• “We feel abandoned by the US and the international powers involved in the Syrian conflict,” — Anonymous Kurdish resident

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• “Conditions are very difficult,” — Mihemet Bozan, Kobani resident

Syrian forces take control of prison holding IS detainees after Kurdish fighters evacuate