The United Kingdom welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), describing it as a pivotal step towards supporting the country's unity and stability. Britain affirmed that this agreement, which includes provisions for integrating military and civilian institutions within the Syrian state structure, represents a significant milestone in the long process of building a unified and secure Syria, and strengthens efforts to end the devastating conflict that has raged for over a decade.
Background of the conflict and the importance of the agreement
This agreement comes within the context of the complex Syrian conflict, which erupted in 2011 and transformed into a multi-sided war involving regional and international powers. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), whose backbone is the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), emerged as a key partner of the US-led international coalition in the war against ISIS, and succeeded in controlling large swathes of northern and eastern Syria. The relationship between the SDF and the Syrian government in Damascus has long been strained, fluctuating between direct confrontation and tactical understandings. Therefore, this agreement represents a strategic shift that could pave the way for the restoration of Syrian state sovereignty over all its territory and resolve one of the most complex issues in the Syrian landscape.
Expected impacts at the local and international levels
Domestically, the agreement is expected to help stem the bloodshed and improve the humanitarian situation for civilians in conflict zones. The integration of civilian and military institutions can restore essential services and enhance administrative and security stability, encouraging the return of internally displaced persons and refugees. Regionally and internationally, this development is of paramount importance. It is likely to reduce regional tensions, particularly those related to the security concerns of neighboring Turkey. Furthermore, the support of a major international power like the United Kingdom, a permanent member of the Security Council, lends the agreement political and diplomatic momentum and encourages other international actors to support a comprehensive political solution in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2254.
British role and ongoing support
The British government emphasized that it will continue to work closely with its international partners to support Syria during this critical transition. This support includes increased humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of war-affected populations, as well as backing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting political solution that guarantees a stable and prosperous future for all Syrians. This stance is seen as a reaffirmation of the international community's commitment to preserving Syria's territorial integrity and ending the divisions exacerbated by years of war.
