SDF Detainee Release Marks Progress on January Agreement Implementation

In a significant development regarding the implementation of a ceasefire agreement, Ahmed Al-Hilali, Deputy Governor of Al-Hasakah, has announced the release of 28 fighters associated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This action represents another step forward in fulfilling the terms of an accord reached on January 29 between Damascus and the SDF.

The cumulative impact of the releases has been substantial, with Al-Hilali noting that the total number of freed detainees now exceeds 1,200 individuals. According to the Al-Hasakah Media Directorate, government officials remain committed to resolving the status of all remaining detainees covered under the agreement framework.

Al-Hilali characterized both the detainee issue and the matter of displaced persons as humanitarian concerns that fall outside the scope of political negotiation. He acknowledged that certain individual cases have experienced delays in processing, attributing these to separate legal matters unrelated to SDF membership. Such cases are being handled through established legal procedures, he emphasized.

The deputy governor indicated that accelerated progress on integrating military and administrative structures should be anticipated in the coming period. This integration process forms a central component of the broader agreement between the Syrian state and the SDF.

The January 29 accord established multiple key provisions: a cessation of hostilities, a structured integration of military and administrative personnel, the deployment of state security forces into major urban centers including Hasakah and Qamishli, and the transfer of civil institutions, government facilities, border crossings, and ports to state control.

The ongoing release of detainees represents one element of a comprehensive effort aimed at reasserting Syrian government authority throughout the northeastern regions of the country.