Fresh clashes erupted in northeastern Syria. This occurred a day after a ceasefire agreement between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The 14-point deal, signed Sunday, aimed to end almost two weeks of fighting. It stipulated SDF withdrawal from Raqqa and Deir al-Zour provinces. The SDF was then to be integrated into state institutions.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa expressed hope the deal would unify Syria. SDF commander Mazlum Abdi stated the fighting was "imposed" upon them. He accepted the deal "to stop the bloodshed." Abdi planned to discuss implementation in Damascus on Monday.
The agreement represents a potential setback for the SDF. They had been hesitant to relinquish autonomy gained during the fight against Islamic State (IS). This autonomy was for Syria's Kurdish minority. The SDF helped US-led forces defeat IS during Syria's 13-year civil war.
Sharaa vowed to end Syria's division. Further talks on implementation are expected. The situation remains tense.
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