Saudi Arabia Welcomes Syria Ceasefire and SDF Integration Agreement

Saudi Arabia Endorses Syrian Peace Deal

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia has officially welcomed the ceasefire agreement in Syria and the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the Syrian state. The announcement was made by the Saudi Foreign Ministry on Monday, January 19, 2026, and reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The Kingdom's statement expressed hope that the agreement would contribute to strengthening security and stability, building state institutions, and applying the rule of law in a manner that fulfills the aspirations of the Syrian people for development and prosperity. Saudi Arabia also reaffirmed its full support for the Syrian government's efforts to enhance civil peace and preserve Syria's sovereignty and territorial unity.

Praise for U.S. Mediation Efforts

In its statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry specifically 'praised' the efforts made by the United States in reaching the agreement. This acknowledgment highlights the diplomatic role played by the U.S. in facilitating the landmark deal between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF.

Details of the Syrian Agreement

The comprehensive ceasefire and integration agreement was announced by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on Sunday, January 18, 2026. It was signed by President al-Sharaa and SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi, marking a significant shift in the balance of power in Syria's northeast.

The 14-point agreement includes several key provisions aimed at unifying the country after years of conflict:

• An immediate and comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts between Syrian government forces and the SDF.
• The full integration of SDF military and security personnel into the structures of the Syrian Ministries of Defense and Interior, following security vetting.
• Withdrawal of all SDF military formations to areas east of the Euphrates River.
• The administrative and military handover of the Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa governorates to the Syrian government.
• The Syrian government will regain control of all border crossings, oil fields, and gas fields in the region.
• Integration of all civilian institutions in the al-Hasakah Governorate into the Syrian state's administrative structures.
• Recognition of Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights, including making Kurdish an official language and recognizing the Kurdish New Year (March 21) as a national holiday.
• The SDF commits to removing all non-Syrian PKK leaders and members from Syrian territory.
• The Syrian state reaffirms its commitment to combating ISIS in coordination with the United States.

Context and International Response

The agreement follows a period of heightened tensions and a military operation by the Syrian Army, which had regained significant areas in eastern and northeastern Syria. This push by government forces came after alleged violations by the SDF of earlier agreements.

Beyond Saudi Arabia, the agreement has garnered international attention. U.S. Special Envoy Thomas Barrack praised the deal, describing it as a step towards a 'unified Syria'. Turkey also welcomed the agreement, expressing hope that it would contribute to stability and security. France similarly welcomed the ceasefire, emphasizing its potential to lead to the SDF's integration into a unified Syria.