Tensions rise between Syrian Government and SDF amid accusations of violating agreements

DARAMSUQ (DAMASCUS) — In the latest escalation between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), both sides traded sharp accusations, each holding the other responsible for undermining stability and breaching existing agreements. 

The first salvo came from the government side. An official source in Daramsuq (Damascus) announced that the government would boycott the upcoming Paris meetings with the SDF, refusing to engage with “any party seeking to revive the era of the fallen regime.” The remark was a direct reference to the recent “Hasakah Conference,” which was held under the banner of promoting unity among communities in North and East Syria. 

Daramsuq (Damascus) described the conference as a “blow to ongoing negotiation efforts” and urged the SDF to “seriously engage” in implementing the March 10 agreement, stressing that talks should be moved to Daramsuq (Damascus) as the “legitimate platform for dialogue.” The government further accused the gathering of trying to “internationalize the Syrian issue” and of hosting “separatist figures involved in hostile actions,” calling the North and East Syria alliance “fragile” and made up of “actors harmed by the victory of the Syrian people.”  

Hours later, the SDF media center issued a statement accusing Turkey-backed factions and others under the umbrella of the Damascus government of carrying out more than 22 attacks in recent weeks in several areas, including Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor), Tel Tamr, Deir Hafer, and Tishreen Dam, as well as movements near the Sheikh Maqsoud and Achrafieh neighborhoods in Holeb (Aleppo). This, they argued, was a violation of the agreement signed in April 2024 between the administrations of the two neighborhoods and Daramsuq (Damascus). The SDF noted that these attacks led to injuries to more than 11 civilians and widespread damage in populated areas, stressing that the core of the agreement between General Commander Mazloum Abdi and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa was based on “a complete ceasefire and protection of civilians.” 

The SDF emphasized that they have exercised restraint despite the repeated attacks but warned that their continuation “threatens mutual trust and brings back war,” holding the Syrian government fully responsible. The SDF also called on the international community to intervene and ensure the respect of agreements, reaffirming that they “extend a hand for dialogue” but are “ready to take all necessary measures to defend the rights and security of their people.”  

The growing tensions reflect the fragility of the negotiation process between the two sides, with each party maintaining its stance, raising questions about the possibility of rebuilding trust and overcoming differences toward a comprehensive political solution in Syria.