• Syria's interim government has reached a landmark agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate military and civilian institutions.
• The deal aims to strengthen the government's authority in the northeast and marks a significant step towards national unity amidst ongoing conflicts.
• Both parties pledged to cease hostilities, which includes handover of critical resources such as oil and gas fields, border crossings, and an airport by the end of the year.
• The accord underscores the recognition of Kurdish rights and their role in the country's political future.

The Syrian presidency announced a pivotal agreement on March 10, 2025, allowing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have controlled much of northeastern Syria, to merge with state institutions. Signed by Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, this deal emphasizes the unification of the region following years of violent conflict. The integration includes transferring control of vital resources such as oil and gas fields, border crossings, and an airport into the hands of the Syrian central government. This move is perceived as one of the most significant developments since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad by opposition forces led by al-Sharaa in December. Reported by The New York Times, the agreement includes provisions for the rights of every Syrian to participate politically and affirms the Kurdish minority as an integral part of Syria. Al-Sharaa described the agreement as a critical opportunity to stabilize and unite a nation fractured by civil strife, stating that “the rights of all Syrians to representation” would be key in moving forward. The deal comes at a time when the interim government faces intense pressure due to violent clashes in the western part of the country, with over 1,300 lives lost recently. The ongoing violence has complicated the government’s efforts to consolidate power and establish stability throughout Syria. As noted by BBC, the integration of the SDF is expected to reduce hostilities between the Kurdish forces and Turkish-backed factions, which have competed for influence along the border. A long-standing U.S. ally, the SDF has transitioned from being ambivalent towards Assad to participating in the Syrian state’s reconstruction endeavors. The agreement allows the SDF to establish its authority while preparing for potential challenges from reticent factions within the region. At the same time, as reported by Reuters, the ongoing Revolutionary struggle signifies an important juncture as the SDF aligns with state objectives amidst fears of instability. Despite criticism regarding the nebulous terms of the deal and past skepticism regarding al-Sharaa’s hard-line approaches, the agreement represents a crucial shift in both governance and regional relations within Syria. As the SDF cedes authority, the implications of this integration could redefine both local governance dynamics and international relations moving forward.