UN Security Council Welcomes SDF–Damascus Agreement, Stresses Protection of Syrian Kurds

Peregraf — The UN Security Council has welcomed a comprehensive agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces, marking a major step toward stabilizing north-east Syria and safeguarding the rights of Syrian Kurds.

In a press statement issued by Council President James Kariuki, members endorsed the deal’s key provisions, including a permanent ceasefire and arrangements for civil, economic, administrative, and military integration across the region. The Council noted that implementation is already under way and urged both sides to fully adhere to the agreement to reduce civilian suffering and ensure unimpeded humanitarian access.

A central focus of the statement was the protection and inclusion of Syrian Kurds. Council members reaffirmed the primary responsibility of the Syrian government to protect all citizens, explicitly highlighting Syrian Kurds, and welcomed Decree 13 issued by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, which guarantees Kurdish rights. They encouraged further steps to integrate Kurdish representatives into state institutions and to facilitate the safe return of displaced Kurds to their areas of origin.

The Council also acknowledged the decisive role played by the SDF in the fight against ISIL (Da’esh) in north-east Syria, praising the “significant sacrifices” made during counter-terrorism operations. Members stressed the need to avoid any security vacuum around ISIL detention facilities in the region and called for coordinated, secure transition plans to manage both detention centers and displacement camps.

Regional cooperation was underscored as vital. The Council welcomed contributions from partners, including the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government, in addressing the ongoing terrorist threat, and urged international coordination on the handling of foreign ISIL detainees.

Reiterating its commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Security Council called on all states to refrain from actions that could destabilize the country. It also encouraged sustained international support for Syria’s transition—particularly in counter-terrorism—while emphasizing that protecting Kurdish rights and ensuring their political inclusion remain essential to durable peace in north-east Syria.