Syrian Forces Enter Qamishli Under U.S.-Backed Agreement with Kurdish Forces

On February 3, 2026, Syrian government security forces began entering the Kurdish-controlled city of Qamishli as part of a U.S.-backed agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This deployment follows a ceasefire deal announced on January 30, which aims to stabilize the region after weeks of conflict that saw the SDF lose significant territory to advancing government troops. The agreement outlines a phased integration of Kurdish fighters into Syrian state institutions, including the army and police forces.

Syria security forces enter strategic al-Hassakeh as part of deal with Kurdish-led SDFSyrian security convoy enters key Kurdish city under US-backed dealSyrian Security Convoy Enters Key Kurdish City Under US-Backed DealFinal Syrian interior ministry convoy set to enter QamishliSyrian forces begin deployment to Hasakah, Kobani and Qamishli cities under deal to integrate SDF-held areasSyrian forces enter Qamishli under ceasefire deal with SDFSyria's interior ministry forces enter key city under deal with Kurdish-led SDFSyrian security forces to enter Qamishli under deal with SDF

The convoy of Syrian security personnel headed directly to a designated security zone within Qamishli for discussions with senior Kurdish officials. Reports indicate that government forces will be stationed in various state buildings and at the city's airport. Concurrently, a contingent of Syrian forces entered the nearby city of Hasakah, approximately 80 kilometers south of Qamishli, to secure state-affiliated institutions.

Syrian security convoy enters key Kurdish city under US-backed dealSyrian Security Convoy Enters Key Kurdish City Under US-Backed DealFinal Syrian interior ministry convoy set to enter QamishliSyrian security forces to enter Qamishli under deal with SDFSyrian forces begin deployment to Hasakah, Kobani and Qamishli cities under deal to integrate SDF-held areasSyria's interior ministry forces enter key city under deal with Kurdish-led SDFSyrian forces enter Qamishli under ceasefire deal with SDFSyria security forces enter strategic al-Hassakeh as part of deal with Kurdish-led SDF

The recent agreement marks a significant shift in the dynamics of power in northeastern Syria, where the SDF had previously established a degree of autonomy during the ongoing civil war. The SDF, which played a crucial role in the fight against the Islamic State, has faced increasing pressure from the Syrian government, particularly under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has sought to reassert central authority over the fragmented country.

Syrian forces enter Qamishli under ceasefire deal with SDF

The U.S. has endorsed the agreement as a pivotal step toward national unity and reconciliation, following a period of heightened tensions between the SDF and the Syrian government. The SDF has historically represented Kurdish interests, but its position has weakened as the U.S. has fostered closer ties with Damascus.

Syria security forces enter strategic al-Hassakeh as part of deal with Kurdish-led SDF

Local reactions to the deployment of Syrian forces have been mixed. Reports indicate that many Arab villagers welcomed the arrival of government troops, expressing relief over the end of SDF control, which they claim marginalized their communities. Conversely, some Kurdish residents have expressed apprehension about living under Syrian government authority, recalling a history of oppression during the Assad regime.

Syrian forces enter Qamishli under ceasefire deal with SDF

Eyewitness accounts suggest that while there is support for the agreement among certain segments of the population, there are also concerns about potential violence and instability. Kurdish security forces have imposed a curfew in anticipation of the government forces' arrival to mitigate tensions.

Final Syrian interior ministry convoy set to enter Qamishli

Despite the optimism surrounding the agreement, skepticism remains regarding its long-term viability. Critics argue that the deep-seated mistrust between Kurdish and Arab communities, exacerbated by years of conflict, poses significant challenges to the integration process. Some local residents have voiced doubts about the sincerity of the agreement, fearing that the military branch of the SDF may not adhere to the political accord.

Syria security forces enter strategic al-Hassakeh as part of deal with Kurdish-led SDF

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned against any attempts to undermine the agreement, asserting that those who do so will face severe consequences. He described the deal as a "new chapter" for Syria, emphasizing the need for peace and stability.

Syria security forces enter strategic al-Hassakeh as part of deal with Kurdish-led SDF

The integration process is expected to unfold gradually, with both sides pulling back forces from frontline positions and working towards a comprehensive integration of security and administrative structures. The success of this agreement will be closely monitored, as it represents a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict and the future governance of northeastern Syria.

Syrian forces begin deployment to Hasakah, Kobani and Qamishli cities under deal to integrate SDF-held areas