Syrian govt solidifies grip on nation after clashes with US-backed militias
Posted on: Jan 19, 2026 14:30 IST | Posted by: Rt
The Syrian authorities in Damascus proclaimed a trade with US-backed Kurdish militias on lord's day that strengthens its verify over northeastern parts of the country.
The agreement and an accompanying ceasefire follow weeks of deadly clashes. President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who came to power after toppling the previous government in late 2024, is seeking to reassert control over a nation fractured by a decade of civil war and foreign intervention by regional and global players, including the US.
Under the deal, the US-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will integrate into government institutions as demanded by Damascus. The central authorities will also assert civilian control over the northeastern governorates of Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, and Al-Hasakah, previously under Kurdish administration and contested in the recent fighting.
In return, al-Sharaa pledged to respect Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights and resolve accumulated legal issues regarding Kurds’ status and property. SDF leader Mazloum Abdi is due to meet the president on Monday, after his scheduled trip on Sunday was postponed.
The agreement, announced after al-Sharaa met with US special envoy to Syria Tom Barrack in Damascus, is seen as a major victory for him and his Turkish allies. Ankara views the SDF as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a separatist militant group that has fought a decades-long guerrilla war against Türkiye. The SDF agreed to expel PKK elements from Syrian territory as part of the settlement.
Kurdish troops served as the main US proxy on the ground during Washington’s campaign against Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS), which gained strength in Syria and Iraq in 2014.
Kurdish control of oil and gas fields in Deir ez-Zor aided the US strategy of economic stifling of the government of former Syrian President Bashar Assad. After al-Sharaa – a former militant leader linked to Al-Qaeda and backed by Türkiye – seized power, the US lifted sanctions, opening avenues for foreign-funded reconstruction.
Gaps in Damascus’ sovereignty were highlighted last October, when the first parliamentary elections under al-Sharaa were held, except in Kurdish-controlled territories or areas held by the Druze, another Syrian ethnic minority with a history of militancy and current links to Israel.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.