The original purpose of the SDF as the primary anti-ISIS force on the ground has largely expired, as Damascus is now both willing and positioned to take over security responsibilities, including control of ISIS detention facilities and camps.

The US has no interest in long-term military presence; it prioritizes defeating ISIS remnants, supporting reconciliation, and advancing national unity without endorsing separatism or federalism.

The United States is pushing for safeguards on Kurdish rights and counter-ISIS cooperation. The alternative—prolonged separation—could invite instability or ISIS resurgence.

This integration, backed by US diplomacy, represents the strongest chance yet for Kurds to secure enduring rights and security within a recognized Syrian nation-state.

In Syria, the United States is focused on:

1: Ensuring the security of prison facilities holding ISIS prisoners, currently guarded by the SDF.

2: Faciliting talks between the SDF and the Syrian Government to allow for the peaceful integration of the SDF and the political inclusion of Syria’s Kurdish population into a historic full Syrian citizenship.

We announce a ceasefire in all operational sectors of the Syrian Arab Army, effective from 20:00 this evening, Tuesday, 20 January 2026.

This decision will remain in effect for four days from its date, in commitment to the understandings announced by the Syrian state with the SDF, and in pursuit of the success of the national efforts being made.

The Ministry of Defense affirms that it will remain the shield of the Syrian people in all their components, and that it will spare no effort in this path, in a manner that preserves the security and stability of the Syrian community in its entirety.

President Ahmed Al-Sharaa received a phone call from the President of the United States, Donald Trump.

During the call, developments in the transitional phase in Syria and the efforts being made to enhance security and stability were discussed, in addition to prospects for bilateral cooperation in a way that serves regional and international stability.

President Al-Sharaa affirmed Syria’s full commitment to the unity of its territory and national sovereignty, and the state’s determination to preserve its institutions and strengthen civil peace. He stressed the importance of unifying international efforts to prevent the return of terrorist organizations, foremost among them ISIS.

President Al-Sharaa emphasized that the “new Syria” adopts an approach of openness and extends its hand in cooperation to all international parties on the basis of shared interests and mutual respect. He agreed with the American President on the necessity of prioritizing dialogue in resolving regional conflicts, stressing that “active diplomacy” is the only way to overcome chronic crises in the region.

President Trump affirmed his country’s support for the aspirations of the Syrian people in building a unified and strong state, and welcomed the ceasefire agreement, considering it an important step toward ending the conflict. He also expressed his support for the understandings related to integrating military forces, including the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), within the framework of official state institutions.

On the economic front, the American President expressed Washington’s readiness to support reconstruction efforts in Syria by encouraging investment and creating an attractive environment for capital, emphasizing that Syria’s economic stability constitutes a fundamental pillar for stability in the Middle East.