FREE -- Syria Weekly: January 27-February 2, 2026
Comprehensive SDF integration deal begins implementation; MOFA Ambassador appointments leak; major Gulf investments imminent; surge in gov't activities in eastern Syria; & more.
SYRIA’S TRANSITION:
Transition Meetings:
January 27:
President Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke by phone with U.S. President Donald Trump on January 27, to discuss ongoing hostilities and negotiations with the SDF. Following the call, President Trump said “I had a great conversation with the highly respected President of Syria. The area is working out very well and I’m very happy about it.” In a later readout provided by the Syrian Foreign Ministry, it was added that the conversation also focused on America’s support for Syria’s reconstruction efforts, through encouraging investment and creating an “attractive environment for capital.”
The Director of Syria’s General Authority for Ports and Customs, Qutaiba Badawi, hosted a delegation from the Belgian Development Agency (ENABEL), headed by Patrick Godissart, Director of Operations for the Middle East and Europe, on January 27 to discuss cooperation in maritime transport and ports.
The Director General of the Syrian Development Fund, Safwat Raslan, hosted a delegation from the Belgian Development Agency – headed by Patrick Godissart, Director of Operations for the Middle East, Europe, and Ukraine – on January 27 to discuss potential support for job creation, institutional capacity building, and the implementation of projects with a direct impact on local communities.
Minister of Administrative Development, Muhammad al-Skaf hosted a delegation from the European Public Law Organization (EPLO), in the presence of the Italian Ambassador to Damascus, Stefano Ravagnan, on January 27 to discuss cooperation in public administration development, modernization of governance frameworks, and institutional capacity building.
Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar oversaw the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Idlib-based al-Maaref University for Applied Sciences on January 27 to provide education, consulting and training services and to establish a scholarship program for students to work at ministry-linked factories and companies.
Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin al-Saleh traveled to Deir ez Zour on January 27 to visit and assess the state of its cultural sites, National Museum and areas of archeological activity.
January 28:
President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani and Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra traveled to Moscow, Russia on January 28 and met with President Vladimir Putin.
Chief of the General Staff Ali al-Naasan received a phone call from his Turkish counterpart, Selcuk Bayraktaroglu on January 28, to discuss ongoing hostilities and negotiations with the SDF over northeast Syria.
The Latakia Governorate hosted a meeting with a delegation from the Belgian Development Agency (ENABEL), headed by Patrick Godissart, Director of Operations for the Middle East and Europe, on January 28.
Minister of Energy Mohammed al-Bashir hosted a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Nuh Yilmaz on January 28 and discussed enhancing cooperation in supporting the recovery of Syria’s energy sector.
Minister of Finance Mohammed Barniyeh hosted a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Nuh Yilmaz on January 28 and discussed ongoing efforts to encourage Turkish financial institutions to operate in Syria, and strengthening banking relations between Syrian and Turkish banks to facilitate growing trade and investment between the two countries.
Governor of Damascus Maher Marwan hosted a meeting with Chaldean Archbishop Antoine Awdo on January 28.
Later that day, Damascus Governor Marwan hosted a meeting with Jihad Abdo, the Director of Syria’s General Cinema Foundation on January 28, to discuss ways to cooperate in supporting Syria’s cinema industry.
Deputy Minister of Energy for Electricity Affairs, Omar Shakrour, hosted a meeting with Azerbaijan’s Ambassador Alnur Shah Husseynov on January 28.
Minister of Health Musab al-Ali hosted a meeting with the Director of the General Authority for Ports and Customs, Qutaiba Badawi, in order to discuss how to “overcome logistical obstacles to the import of medicines and medical devices through border crossings.”
Later that day, Minister al-Ali also hosted a meeting with Japan’s Charge d’Affairs and a delegation from Japan’s International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to discuss structural and service damage inflicted on the health sector by the previous regime and the prospects for a shift from aid-based assistance to development.
Minister of Transport Yaroub Badr traveled to Aleppo on January 28 and met with Governor Azzam al-Gharib to discuss the governorate’s transport sector and needs.
Minister of Agriculture Amjad Badr hosted a meeting with the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) program on January 28 to discuss strategies for dealing with drought and its effects.
The Director of Social Affairs and Labor in Aleppo, Abdulrahman al-Hafez, visited several IDP camps in the Azaz region on January 28, following complaints from residents about their conditions.
Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin al-Saleh traveled to Raqqa on January 28 and inspected its cultural centers and National Museum.
Acclaimed actor and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Theo James visited Damascus on January 28, touring the city and meeting with local residents.
January 29:
Interior Minister Anas Khattab hosted a meeting with a delegation from the government of Austria, led by Special Envoy to the Middle East Arad Benko on January 29, during which they discussed issues relating to migration, border control and steps to support voluntary refugee returns.
Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin al-Saleh visited Idlib on January 29 and spent time at the al-Azraq IDP camp outside Maarat al-Numan, distributing aid to residents.
A delegation from Damascus’ Water Authority visited the Czech Republic on January 29 to learn from the country’s experience with water purification plans and to discuss enhancing cooperation.
Minister of Finance Mohammed Barniyeh hosted a meeting with Norwegian Charge d’Affairs Hilde Haraldstad in Damascus on January 29, during which they discussed the ministry’s ongoing work focused on digitalization and digital transformation.
Deputy Head of the Executive Office of Aleppo Governorate, Fawaz Hilal and provincial director of the Investment Authority, Hazem Lutfi, managed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Aleppo City Council and THE CORE Company to begin implementing the al-Jawhara Boulevard project in Khan al-Asal. The space will combine natural green spaces with entertainment, community activities, restaurants and event spaces.
Minister of Awqaf Mohammed Abu al-Khayr Shukri traveled to Amman, Jordan on January 29 and met with members of the Syrian diaspora there to discuss questions regarding the Hajj, Umrah and al-Waqf.
Minister of Agriculture Amjad Badr hosted a meeting with the Director General of Turkish company Aksim Holding, Nejat Tur, in Damascus on January 29 and discussed propects for valuable investments in Syria’s agricultural sector, as well in the production of flour.
Minister of Education Mohammed Turko convened a meeting with senior Education Directorate officials from Aleppo, Raqqa and Deir ez Zour governorates on January 29 to discuss the state of education and school infrastructure.
An MOI delegation traveled to Vienna, Austria on January 29 to participate in the drafting conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime.
A delegation from Syria’s Authority for the Development and Support of Local Production and Exports met with the Saudi Export Development Authority on the sidelines of the Gulfood 2026 exhibition in Dubai, UAE on January 29.
Governor to Suwayda Mustafa Bakkour hosted a meeting with a delegation from Norwegian Church Aid al-Mazraa in western Suwayda on January 29, to discuss enhancing further the significant cooperation the charity has established with the Governor’s office over the past 6 months in delivering aid.
The Directorate of Antiquities in Idlib launched a new project on January 29 alongside the Heritage for Peace NGO to preserve and document archaeological sites in the Jabal al-Zawiyah region.
January 30:
President Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke by phone with his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nayhan on January 30.
Deputy Interior Minister Abdulqader Tahhan, Director of Special Tasks, Brigadier General Baraa Abdulrazzaq; and newly named Commander of Internal Security in Hasakeh, Brigadier General Marwan al-Ali, met in Raqqa on January 30 to begin planning next steps to implement the SDF integration agreement.
Minister of Finance Mohammed Barniyeh hosted a meeting with a delegation from American consulting firm Oliver Wyman – headed by regional director, Matteo De Clercq – in Damascus on January 30 to discuss potential cooperation in efforts to develop financial and administrative policies.
The Director General of Syria’s Atomic Energy Commission, Mudhar al-Akla, met with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, in Vienna, Austria on January 30 and discussed ways to enhance cooperation in 2026.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture for Plant Affairs, Tamam al-Hamad, hosted an EU delegation in Damascus on January 30 to discuss proposed areas for EU support to farmers in Syria.
January 31:
President Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke by phone with French President Emmanuel Macron and Kurdish President Masoud Barzani on January 31, a day after signing a comprehensive integration agreement with the SDF in northeast Syria.
A joint delegation from the MOI (led by Colonel Ahmed al-Ahmad, Director of Airport and Border Security) and Civil Aviation Authority (led by Deputy Director, Amjad Nakhal) visited Deir ez Zour civil airport on January 31 to assess its technical and structural state.
A delegation from the ICRC visited the Tishreen Dam in Raqqa on January 31 to inspect its currently capacity and to assess need for repair, rehabilitation and other services.
Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin al-Saleh visited al-Qusayr, Homs on January 31.
February 1:
SDF leader Mazloum Abdi spoke by phone on February 1 with Iraqi Kurdish President Masoud Barzani to discuss plans to begin implementing the integration of the SDF into the Syrian state the following day.
Newly named commander of internal security in Hasakeh, Brigadier General Marwan al-Ali traveled to Hasakeh and Qamishli cities on February 1 to meet with SDF and Asayish commanders in order to discuss plans for the entry of MOI personnel into both cities on February 2, to begin integration procedures. In later public comments, Brigadier General al-Ali said that on February 3, MOI personnel would enter Qamishli and the SDF would hand over control of Qamishli Airport.
Meanwhile, the Commander of Internal Security in Aleppo, Colonel Mohammed Abdulghani, visited Kobani and met with his SDF and Asayish counterparts.
A delegation from the U.S. military also visited Hasakeh and Qamishli that day – likely to join the meetings.
UNHCR Commissioner Gonzalo Vargas Llosa visited Syria on February 1 and spent time in the Sheikh Maqsoud district of Aleppo city, where he said he was “encouraged to see many residents who had recently been displaced… returning to their homes today, a sign of confidence in the future.” He also met with Governor Azzam al-Gharib.
The Director General of the Syrian Development Fund, Safwat Raslan, hosted a meeting with a delegation from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), to discuss early recovery and sustainable development. The BMZ delegation included Anette Schamas, Head of the Middle East Department; Anna Stege, Deputy Director General; Johanna Wolff, Head of the BMZ office in Syria; Kathrin Loeber, Head of Cooperation; Marcelo Maschke, Deputy Head of Cooperation; and Bernd Kosmetz, responsible for transitional development assistance.
Later that day, Justice Minister Mazhar al-Ways also hosted a meeting with the German BMZ delegation.
Minister of Social Affairs Hind Kabawat hosted a meeting with EU Charge d’Affairs Michael Ohnmacht to discuss proposed EU support in vocational and technical training to support Syria’s labor market.
The Director General of the Syrian Investment Authority, Talal Al-Hilali, hosted a meeting with Jordanian Ambassador Sufyan al-Qudah on February 1 and discussed new opportunities to increase economic cooperation in 2026.
The Director of Syria’s Planning and Statistics Authority, Anas Sulaym, traveled to Doha, Qatar on February 1 and met with Secretary General of the National Planning Council, Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa to discuss enhancing cooperation.
The Director of Education in Raqqa governorate, Khalil Ibrahim, visited a number of schools across the region alongside Assistant Minister of Education, Yousef Anan, on February 1.
Minister of Economy Nidal al-Shaar hosted a meeting with Algerian Ambassador Abdelkader Qasimi al-Hasani on February 1.
The President of SARC, Hazem al-Baqla, signed 2026 strategic cooperation agreements with the ICRC on February 1, with programming planned in the areas of emergency and medical services, including the fitting of prosthetic limbs, relief efforts, livelihoods, water, rehabilitation, the management of human remains, the protection of family ties, the dissemination of international humanitarian law, and capacity building, in addition to media and communication.
Governor to Suwayda Mustafa Bakkour hosted a meeting with a delegation from UNICEF on February 1 to discuss cooperating in additional programming inside Suwayda in 2026.
Italian Ambassador to Syria Stefano Ravagnan was hosted for a meeting with the Board of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce on February 1, during which they discussed how best Italian businesses can establish markets in Syria.
A delegation from Syria’s Union of Arab Writers traveled to Cairo, Egypt on February 1 to participate in the General Union of Arab Writers conference – the first time Syria had been readmitted for participation for nearly a decade.
Governor of Damascus Maher Marwan and the Director General of the Authority for Radio and Television, Alaa Barsilo, toured the headquarters of Damascus Radio on February 1 in advance of the station’s planned re-launch on February 4.
February 4:
Government MOI forces – commanded by Brigadier General Baraa Abdulrazzaq, the MOI’s Director of Special Tasks – entered Hasakeh city on February 2 and set up an office at the Traffic Police headquarters in the city center. A meeting was subsequently held involving MOI Internal Security commander Marwan al-Ali, MOI Special Tasks Commander Brigadier General Baraa Abdulrazzaq, and Asayish leaders.
That day, government MOI forces also advanced into the Shuyoukh area southwest of Kobani, where at least 12 Arab villages had been controlled by the SDF for a decade.
Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani hosted a visit by a 5-member delegation from the Kurdish National Council – comprising Mohammed Ismael, Suleiman Oso, Faisaliya Yousef, Faysal Yousef, and Nemat Dawoud – at the Tishreen Palace in Damascus on February 2.
The Foreign Ministry’s Director of International Cooperation, Qutaiba Qadesh, hosted a visiting delegation from the EU, led by the Head of the European Commission’s Middle East Unit, Ana Pires, alongside EU Charge d’Affairs Michael Ohnmacht in Damascus on February 2.
Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar oversaw the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement between the Damascus and Amman Chambers of Commerce on February 2, to “develop economic and trade relations between the two countries, facilitate trade exchanges, encourage investment, and establish economic partnerships.”
Governor of Damascus Maher Marwan presided over a ceremony alongside German government officials from BMZ and GIZ in Jobar on February 2 to lay the foundation stone for a center to document property ownership documentation in Jobar and Qaboun — followed by landmine removal, rubble removal, and eventually, residential reconstruction.
Minister of Justice Mazhar al-Ways hosted a meeting with the Head of the European Commission’s Middle East Unit, Ana Pires, alongside EU Charge d’Affairs Michael Ohnmacht in Damascus on February 2.
Minister of Emergency and Disaster Response Raed al-Saleh hosted a meeting with Jordanian Ambassador Sufyan al-Qudah on February 2.
Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa traveled to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 2 and participated in the Saudi Media Forum 2026. While there, Minister al-Mustafa also held side meetings with his Saudi counterpart Salman bin Yusuf al-Dosari and Jordanian counterpart Mohammed al-Momani.
Minister of Agriculture Amjad Badr traveled to Amman, Jordan on February 2 and met with his counterpart Saeb Khuraysat to discuss opportunities for increasing cooperation.
A delegation from the Information Ministry – led by Assistant Minister of Information for Digital Media and Development, Mohammed Tafaran – traveled to Doha, Qatar on February 2 and participated in the Doha Web Summit 2026.
A delegation from the MOI, led by Colonel Abdulrahim Jabara, the Director of Cooperation, continued their visit to Vienna, Austria on February 2 and met with their counterparts from the Austrian Interior Ministry, to discuss issues relating to immigration, asylum, and refugee returns.
Later that day, they also met with Jeremy Douglas, Deputy Head of Operations at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
February 3:
President Ahmed al-Sharaa hosted a meeting with a delegation from the Kurdish National Council, led by Mohammed Ismael, on February 3. They discussed the Presidential Decree 13 providing full national rights to Syria’s Kurdish community and the need for it to be included in Syria’s future reformed constitution.
The MOI and SDF coordinated the entry of a 15-vehicle MOI convoy carrying approximately 120 personnel into the city of Qamishli, Hasakeh on February 3, to begin the process of the SDF’s integration into the state. An MOI statement confirming the entry asserted that the agreement signed with the government stipulated that all foreign PKK fighters were required to leave the SDF — in an apparent indication that it believed this had not yet occurred.
Minister of Health Musab al-Ali presided over the signing of a memorandum of understanding with UNDP on February 3 to launch work to rehabilitate 5 National Hospitals — in Jisr al-Shughour, Idlib; Daraa; Al-Bukamal, Deir ez Zour; Halfaya, Hama; and Taldo, Homs. The UNFP programming would be funded by Germany, through the KfW Development Bank.
Finance Minister Mohammed Barniyeh traveled to Dubai, UAE on February 3 to participate in the 10th Forum on Public Finance in Arab Countries organized by the IMF and Arab Monetary Fund,
A delegation from Syria’s Foreign Ministry - led by Director of Asian Affairs, Zakariya al-Lababidi - traveled to New Delhi, India to participate in the Second Ministerial Meeting of the Arab-Indian Cooperation Forum.
Interior Minister Anas Khattab hosted a meeting with a group of specialist MOI officers - alongside Director of the Rehabilitation and Training Department, Hussein Salman - who were preparing to travel to the UAE to compete in the UAE SWAT Challenge.
Later that day, Interior Minister Khattab traveled to Homs on February 3 to inaugurate the opening of the newly established “Relations Department” at the Internal Security HQ. The facility is designed to receive citizens and hear their complaints and requests.
The Director of Syria’s Planning and Statistics Authority, Anas Sulaym, visited Doha, Qatar on February 3 and met with the Secretary-General of the National Planning Council, Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa.
Minister of Education Mohammed Turko hosted a meeting with a delegation from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), to discuss early recovery and sustainable development. The BMZ delegation was led by Anette Schamas, Head of BMZ’s Middle East Department. They discussed potential German support to vocational and technical education.
Governor to Suwayda Mustafa Bakkour hosted a meeting with a delegation from the ICRC on February 3 to discuss cooperation.
Appointments:
On January 27, influential transitional government figure Qutaiba Qadesh – who until recently had been Director of Communications and Ceremonies at the Foreign Ministry – was moved to become the Director of International Cooperation at the Foreign Ministry.
On January 28, Syrian media leaked a number of anticipated Foreign Ministry appointments, including:
Mohammed Qanatri, Charge d’Affairs to the US (formerly Deputy Director, Americas)
Mohsen Mahbash, Charge d’Affairs to Saudi Arabia (formerly Assistant to Foreign Minister)
Mohammed Taha al-Ahmed, Charge d’Affairs to Egypt (formerly Director of Arab Affairs)
Iyad al-Hazaa, Charge d’Affairs to Lebanon (formerly Director of Political Affairs in Syria’s Coast)
Mohammed Bara Shukri, Charge d’Affairs to Germany (formerly Director of European Affairs)
Zakariya al-Lababidi, Charge d’Affairs to China (formerly Director of Asia Affairs)
Ashad al-Salabi, Director, Afro-Asia Department (responsible for Africa and Asia)
Idlib’s Directorate of Culture announced on January 28 that acclaimed artist Aziz Asmar – famous for painting art on pieces of destroyed buildings – had been appointed as the head of the province’s Department of Arts.
The MOI appointed Brigadier General Marwan al-Ali as the commander of internal security in Hasakeh governorate on January 30. Ali was born in Qamishli and speaks Kurdish. Until his new appointment, he had served as Director of Criminal Investigations at the MOI.
The Ministry of Education appointed Khalil Ibrahim as the Director of Education in Raqqa governorate on January 30.
The MOI appointed Brigadier General Hussein al-Hamadeh as the new Director of Criminal Investigations on January 30.
President al-Sharaa issued a decree on February 1 naming Major General Abdulqader al-Tahhan as the Deputy Interior Minister. He had previously been the Assistant Interior Minister for Security Affairs.
The MOI appointed Colonel Rami Asaad al-Taha as Commander of Internal Security in Raqqa governorate on February 3. Until then, he had been Deputy Commander of Internal Security in Homs, and then Deputy Director of Counterterrorism.
Political Developments:
Syrian media claimed on January 27 that a deal had been reached between the government and the SDF for integration, in which a comprehensive ceasefire would begin, with MOI personnel to deploy into Kurdish areas to oversee the integration of local Asayish forces into local law enforcement; the SDF would integrate on an individual basis, forming several smaller Kurdush units in Hasakeh; and that the agreement would begin within 48-hours.
Conflicting information subsequently emerged, suggesting the agreement had been prematurely announced amid continuing negotiations.
Interior Minister Anas Khattab issued a decree on January 28 granting Syrian citizenship to all Kurdish previously denied to them under Assad’s regime – stipulating that such steps are completed by February 5.
Shia cleric Abdullah Nizam announced on January 29 that he had established the Islamic Scholarly Body for the Followers of the Ahlu al-Bayt in Syria – a council intended to represent the country’s Shia community.
The Syrian government and SDF announced on January 30 that a comprehensive integration deal had been agreed, with both sides issuing identical statements:
An agreement has been reached to halt fire between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) under a comprehensive agreement, with an understanding on a phased integration process for the military and administrative forces between the two sides.
The agreement includes the withdrawal of military forces from points of contact, and the entry of security forces affiliated with the Ministry of Interior into the cities of Al-Hasakah and Qamishli to reinforce stability and begin the process of integrating security forces in the region, as well as the formation of a military brigade comprising three regiments from SDF forces, in addition to the formation of a regiment for the Kobani forces (Ayn al-Arab) within a brigade affiliated with the Aleppo Governorate.
The agreement also includes the integration of self-administration institutions within the Syrian state institutions, with the retention of civilian employees. An agreement has also been reached on settling the civil and educational rights of the Kurdish community and ensuring the return of the displaced to their areas. The agreement aims to unify Syrian territories, enforce the law, and achieve full integration in the region by enhancing cooperation between the concerned parties and unifying efforts to rebuild the country.
Media reporting and public comments from officials later clarified a number of issues regarding the deal, including:
- MOI forces would deploy into Hasakeh, Qamishli and other areas on Monday, February 2 – a delay designed to “facilitate withdrawals and entry, and to avoid any frictions during the transition phase.”
- SDF fighters will be integrated on an individual basis, to then be included within 3 Brigades (constituting 1 MOD Division) based in Hasakeh and 1 Brigade (to be included within 1 MOD Division) in Aleppo.
- The government will assume full control of all borders, border crossings, ports, oil and gas facilities, and civil institutions.
- Female SDF fighters within the YPJ are a “pending issue” given there being no “prepared framework” within the existing MOD to accommodate “female combat units.”
- AANES employees will be merged into government institutions, remaining in their places of work.
- High school and university diplomas issued in northeast Syria will be nationally recognized.
- Displaced people from Ras al-Ayn, Tel Abyad and Afrin will be facilitated in their returns to their places of origin and property.
- Turkish military forces will withdraw from Afrin and Ras al-Ayn.
Subsequent reporting by Al Majalla revealed the full text of the agreement:
1. Declaration of a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire and cessation of all arrests and raids based on recent events. The protection of ISIS prisons by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will continue. Full logistical support will also be provided for the ongoing evacuation process.
2. Military withdrawal of SDF forces from the cities of Hasakah and Qamishli to the agreed-upon military barracks, in exchange for the immediate withdrawal of the Syrian army to the town of Shaddadi, south of Hasakah.
3. Formation of a military division for Hasakah Governorate by the Syrian Ministry of Defense, with the integration of SDF forces into three brigades.
4. Integration of the military force in Kobani into a brigade affiliated with a military division in Aleppo Governorate.
5. Entry of 15 security vehicles into each of the cities of Hasakah and Qamishli to enhance security and stability, and the start of the process of integrating SDF security forces into the Ministry of Interior.
6. Appointment of local officials:
- Appointment of a governor for Hasakah nominated by the SDF.
- Appointment of a security chief for the governorate nominated by the Syrian government.
- Appointment of a deputy minister of defense nominated by the SDF.
7. Taking over vital sites:
- Taking over the Rmeilan and Suwaidiyeh oil fields and integrating the civilian employees by the Ministry of Energy.
- Taking over Qamishli Airport by the Civil Aviation Authority.
8. Sending a team from the Land Border Authority to the Semalka and Nusaybin border crossings to confirm the civilian employees, prevent the use of the crossings for smuggling weapons and foreigners across the border, and immediately activate the crossings.
9. The Syrian government will take control of all civil institutions in Al-Hasakah Governorate and integrate the institutions of the Autonomous Administration into the Syrian state institutions, while retaining the civil servants working in those institutions.
10. Military forces from all sides will be prohibited from entering cities and towns, especially in Kurdish areas.
11. All school, university, and institute certificates issued by the Autonomous Administration in northeastern Syria will be recognized and validated.
12. All local and cultural organizations and media institutions will be licensed in accordance with the regulations of the relevant ministries.
13. Collaboration with the Ministry of Education will be established to discuss the educational curriculum for the Kurdish community and to take into account its specific educational needs.
14. The return of all displaced persons to their cities and villages (Afrin, Sheikh Maqsoud, Ras al-Ain/Serê Kaniyê) will be facilitated, and local officials will be appointed to the civil administrations in those areas.
In public remarks on January 30, Information Minister Hamza al-Mustafa said the agreement with the SDF announced earlier in the day was not new, but a “supplement to the January 18 agreement,” which requires the SDF to handover control of the Rumeylan and Suweidiya oil fields, as well as Qamishli Airport “within 10 days,” while the implementation of SDF integration and MOI entry to Kurdish areas would begin on Monday February 2. Minister Mustafa added that the extended ceasefire was intended to provide the U.S. military time to transfer ISIS detainees to neighboring Iraq.
In public comments issued on January 30, co-chair of the AANES’ Foreign Relations Department, Ilham Ahmed, said that the agreement announced earlier in the day was “an important step on the path to stability” and “the entry of [MOI] security forces will ensure a responsible and gradual integration process that guarantees partnership and preserves the dignity of all components.”
In a televised interview with Ronahi TV late on January 30, SDF leader Mazloum Abdi addressed the comprehensive integration deal agreed earlier that day, stating:
- A limited force from the Internal Security Forces will enter the security square in Hasakah and Qamishli to implement the integration agreement in practice
- Local security forces will carry out their duties in maintaining security within Kurdish areas, and we are working continuously to integrate them into the Syrian Ministry of Interior
- Local employees and residents of Kurdish areas in Kobani and Al-Jazira will manage their regions themselves
- Employees of the Autonomous Administration and government institutions in Kurdish areas will remain in their positions and integrate into the relevant government ministries
- We have communicated with President Ahmed Al-Sharaa regarding the issue of abductees, prisoners, and the missing
- I will not take any government position; I will remain among my people and by their side, working to form a political reference for Kurds in Syria
- The main clause is that the army will not enter Kurdish cities and villages, and they will be protected by Kurdish security forces
- The Syrian state will manage government institutions and will leave after the integration is completed
- The agreement enters practical implementation on the second of next February, and pursuant to it, our forces and government forces withdraw from the confrontation lines in Kobani and al-Jazeera.
Syrian media reported on January 31 that the candidate recommended by the SDF to be Governor of Hasakeh was Nour al-Din Ahmed (Abu Omar Khanika), the former director of the Alaya Prison in Qamishli. Issa is a senior SDF official close to Mazloum Abdi, who had also been deeply involved in the SDF’s foreign relations file. A former PKK operative, Issa’s son and two brothers died fighting for the PKK, according to public reporting.
The Kurdish National Council issued a public statement on February 1 calling on the January 30 integration agreement between the government and the SDF to be “implemented in earnest and in a sustainable manner, so as to spare the country further suffering and tension and enable the return of the displaced to their homes.” It also described the Presidential Decree 13 on Kurdish rights as “an entry point for launching a serious national dialogue between the government and representatives of the Kurdish people to achieve legitimate national rights.”
A group of academics and civil society figures in Suwayda announced on February 1 the establishment of the “Third Current” movement, aimed at creating a middle ground seeking justice, but also a pathway towards reunifying with the rest of Syria. Their declaration read:
We, the Third Current, which has been imposed by the reality of the impasse in Suwayda Governorate, raise our voice with boldness and transparency, stemming from our ethical and historical responsibility towards protecting society and ensuring its stability, dignity, and safety.
Accordingly, we present to you this document as a practical roadmap aimed at protecting society and preventing a slide into chaos, through the establishment of a civil rescue body that emerges from society and works for its sake.
The governorate is currently passing through a critical stage characterized by massacres, displacement, and marginalization, amid political deadlock and a central discourse that ignores the suffering of its people. We do not claim to represent anyone, nor do we pretend to possess absolute truth, but this document offers practical steps to transform the current reality into a civil and national path that protects society, preserves its dignity, and secures its stability.
The Main Objectives of the Third Current
1. Condemning the massacres and demanding accountability and reparations.
2. Holding the authority responsible for the bloody events of July, even if some other parties sought confrontation.
3. Affirming that Suwayda is an integral part of a unified Syria, and that the history of its people – including the legacy of the Great Syrian Revolution led by Sultan Pasha al-Atrash – embodies the spirit of shared national struggle, while adopting consensual administrative decentralization as the basis for a solution.
4. The safe return of residents to their villages, the release of abductees, and compensation for the affected.
5. Protecting students and guaranteeing their right to education.
6. Neutralizing Suwayda from regional axes and ensuring a dignified life.
7. Dialogue and civil cooperation as the foundation for community action.
Explanation of the Objectives
First: Condemning the massacres and demanding accountability and reparations
The violations against civilians in Suwayda constitute grave moral and political crimes that cannot be justified or passed over in silence or forgotten. The body affirms that responsibility is individual, and no person or party involved enjoys immunity. We demand a public, independent, and non-politicized accountability process, accompanied by reparations and material and moral compensation for the victims without delay. Accountability is not revenge, but an essential condition for stability and preventing the recurrence of crimes.
Second: Holding the authority responsible for the bloody events of July
The primary responsibility for protecting civilians lies with the state, regardless of the complexities of the situation or attempts at local confrontations. Holding the authority accountable does not mean exonerating any other party, but rather acknowledging that the absence of protection, mismanagement of the file, or delayed intervention contributed to the aggravation of the tragedy. Any future stability requires clear assumption of responsibility and a serious review of performance.
Third: Suwayda is an integral part of a unified Syria, with the adoption of consensual administrative decentralization
The body proceeds from a clear national stance that affirms Suwayda’s full belonging to the Syrian state, based on the history of its people that embodies the shared national struggle, including the legacy of the Great Syrian Revolution led by Sultan Pasha al-Atrash. This position aims to block the way for any partition projects, isolation, or external exploitation of the governorate’s suffering, while stressing that legitimate local demands do not contradict the unity and sovereignty of the country
Fourth: Return of residents to their villages, release of abductees, and compensation for the affected
There can be no talk of stability or civil peace in the presence of displaced persons or abductees. The body considers the safe and dignified return of residents to their villages an urgent priority, alongside the immediate and unconditional release of civilian abductees, and the establishment of a clear and transparent mechanism for material and moral compensation of the affected, with practical guarantees to prevent the recurrence of violations.
Fifth: Protecting students and guaranteeing the right to education
Education is a fundamental right that must not be compromised or tied to security conditions. The body demands protection for university students and ensuring their safe access to their universities, compensation for educational losses resulting from the events, and the provision of psychological and academic support to those affected, along with full recognition of the 2025 high school certificate without any reduction.
Sixth: Neutralizing Suwayda from regional axes and ensuring a dignified life
The body stresses the necessity of neutralizing Suwayda from any regional conflicts or alignments aimed at dividing Syria or using the suffering of its people as a pressure card. Ensuring security, basic services, and opportunities for a dignified life is a top priority, and neutralizing weapons from internal disputes is a red line that must not be crossed.
Seventh: Dialogue and civil cooperation as the basis of community action
The absence of dialogue is one of the main reasons for the aggravation of division and chaos. The body believes that dialogue and civil cooperation, based on mutual respect and the rejection of accusations of treason, are the only way to build trust, address differences, and transform society from a state of fear and reaction to organized and responsible action.
The spokesman for the Supreme Committee for People’s Assembly Elections, Nawar Najmeh, announced on February 2 that preparations were underway to begin holding electoral procedures in Raqqa governorate, once the security condition had calmed. He added that similar procedures would soon be initiated for Hasakeh governorate and Kobani district in Aleppo.
Syria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ibrahim Olabi, confirmed on February 2 that Syria had assumed the presidency of the Arab Group at the UN.
Economic Developments:
The Central Bank’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Authority and Syria’s Central Authority for Supervision and Inspection signed a memorandum of understanding on January 27 to cooperate more efficiently “in the field of financial supervision and integrity, and building a financial system committed to the law.”
The Ministry of Tourism announced on January 28 that more than 3.5 million tourists had visited Syria in 2025, with the removal of the Caesar Act expected to increase those numbers further in 2026.
The General Committee for Taxes and Fees announced on January 28 a tax of SYP 1,000 (~$10) on each alcohol product imported to Syria from abroad.
The Financial Times claimed on January 30 that the Syrian government was considering offering a potential new license for cell phone services in Syria, with talks ongoing with companies based in Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. It added that any eventual contract would see the regional company take on management of SyriaTel or MTN, in exchange for a $700 million purchase agreement and $500 million of additional investment.
The Director of Corporate Communications at the Syrian Petroleum Company, Safwan al-Sheikh Ahmed, announced on January 30 that domestic production of gas was currently at 110 tonnes per day, primarily from the Ebla and South Central Region plants, as well as al-Shaer. He added that prior to 2011, the Conoco Gas Plant produced 10,000 tonnes per day and engineers were now working to rehabilitate the facility. Syria’s domestic gas demand currently stands at 1,700 tonnes, requiring external supplies.
In a televised interview with al-Ikhbariya on January 30, Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar said the control of northeastern Syria “paves the way for new economic construction and revival,” but added that water, electricity and sewage infrastructure was “severely” damaged and required significant repairs. Minister Shaar added that some oil wells would be capable of being restarted within 6-9 months. Moreover, since Assad’s fall, more than 3,560 factories have been reactivated in Syria.
The Director of Syria’s Investment Authority, Talal al-Hilali, announced on February 3 that Saudi investment would soon be directed into the launch of a new private Syrian airline. More details would be announced on February 7, he added.
Infrastructure Developments:
Local officials re-opened the Manbij-Maskanah road in eastern Aleppo on January 28, following intensive demining efforts. The road had been closed for more than 12 months.
Officials from Syria’s General Establishment for Drinking Water and Sanitation, inaugurated new pumps and other equipment to power the Harasta Mountain water wells on January 28, thanks for work undertaken by the ICRC and SARC.
Engineers from the Energy Ministry reactivated the al-Sabha transformer station in Deir ez Zour on January 28, after repairing its transformers following the takeover of the facility from SDF control.
Energy Ministry officials inaugurated the newly constructed Tel Rifat Power Station in northern Aleppo on January 29, which was designed to power Tel Rifat and 40 surrounding towns and villages with electricity for the first time in more than 10 years. It was constructed by the Syrian-Turkish Electric Energy Company.
Local authorities completed the reconstruction of the Asharaa Bridge across the Euphrates River in southern rural Deir ez Zour on January 29, following its demolition by SDF forces a week earlier.
Authorities in Hajar al-Aswad, Damascus inaugurated the newly rehabilitated Rahman Mosque on January 30, following significant repair work undertaken by Takaful Austria.
Local authorities inaugurated the significantly rehabilitated Eido Mosque in Kansabba, Latakia on January 30, following work undertaken by a Malaysian NGO.
Ministry of Energy engineers visited the Jabsa Gas Station south of Hasakeh on January 30 to assess its need for maintenance and repairs.
Local authorities re-opened the Qardaha Police Station in Latakia on January 31, following extensive rehabilitation and repair work. The station will be fully staffed by local Alawite recruits of the MOI.
Engineers from the Energy Ministry reconnected the Tishreen Dam to Syria’s electricity grid on January 31, for the first time in over a year.
Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin al-Saleh inaugurated the newly restored Arab Cultural Center in Telkhalakh, Homs on February 1.
The Homs Water Directorate completed work on a new water well and solar-powered pumping equipment in Kafr Laha, Homs on February 1.
Engineers from the Civil Aviation Authority began work on rehabilitating Deir ez Zour Airport on February 1, aiming to eventually make it suitable for domestic air travel.
The General Establishment for Drinking Water – with the assistance of OXFAM – completed the rehabilitation of the al-Basit and Bayt Badour water pumping stations in Latakia on February 2 – providing drinking water to 30,000 local residents.
The Director General of the Syrian Postal Authority, Imad al-Din Hamad, announced on February 3 that beginning in March, SMS messages would be sent out to retired public sector workers providing them with the date for receiving their pensions. He added further that for a fee of SYP 100, pensioners could receive their payments delivered to their homes.
Education Developments:
The Director of Education in Raqqa, Khalil Ibrahim, announced on January 28 that more than 800 schools in the governorate were “out of service” and the immediate priority was to “eradicate illiteracy.”
Minister of Higher Education Marwan al-Halabi and the Director of Syria’s Central Control and Inspection Authority, Amer al-Ali, signed a memorandum of understanding on January 28 to establish a comprehensive institutional cooperation framework “in the fields of training and qualification, scientific research and development, capacity building, and accreditation of scientific and research programs, thereby enhancing the integration between theoretical and practical aspects in the field of control and inspection.”
The Ministry of Education delivered 118,345 school textbooks to the Directorate of Education in Raqqa and a further 245,973 textbooks to Deir ez Zour on January 29.
Local authorities inaugurated 5 new school buildings built in the village of Tahliya in southern rural Aleppo on January 29, thanks for local fundraising efforts.
The Ministry of Education confirmed on January 30 that more than 20,000 teachers and employees who had been arbitrarily dismissed by Assad’s regime between 2011-2024 had been reinstated into service across the country.
Governor of Rif Dimashq Amer al-Sheikh inaugurated the newly rehabilitated Qudsaya Boys’ School on January 31.
Health Developments:
The Deir ez Zour Health Directorate sent medical teams inside al-Hol Camp in neighboring Hasakeh on January 27 to deliver vaccines, nutrition support and psychological services to women and children in the camp.
A Communicable Diseases team from the Deir ez Zour Health Directorate conducted a day-long investigation inside the al-Hol Camp in neighboring Hasakeh on January 28 to assess for sources of water-borne diseases.
Idlib’s Health Director inaugurated the newly established Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Division and Outpatient Department at Idlib University Hospital on January 29.
Aleppo’s Health Directorate, with assistance from UNICEF and the WHO deployed mobile health clinics to Manbij, al-Safira and Deir Hafer districts in Aleppo on February 1 to provide free healthcare services to local populations – particularly pediatric clinics, internal medicine, reproductive health, nutrition, vaccinations, a pharmacy, and essential medicines.
Security Developments:
The MOI opened centers in Ashrafiyeh and Sheikh Maqsoud districts of Aleppo city on January 27 to facilitate the process of former SDF-linked combatants to settle their status with the state.
The MOI began a comprehensive survey of the al-Hol camp population on January 27, distributing forms to be filled out and handed into camp security coordinators.
The MOI issued an internal decree on January 27 prohibiting any armed units from entering hospitals, universities, schools, places of worship, government offices and ‘tourist hotels,’ unless in cases of “extreme necessity.”
The MOD announced on January 30 the the al-Hol district had become a “closed military zone” and the main road lying to the north of al-Hol camp would be a “security road” allowing for passage without any stops.
An unnamed Syrian government official told Reuters on January 30 that the MOI sought to “permanently close civilian detention camps linked to ISIS within a year.” The same Reuters story claimed that the transfer of male ISIS detainees from northeast Syria had slowed over the past week due to Iraq’s need to “prepare prisons” and “hold talks with other countries regarding repatriation.”
In a public statement on January 30, the Ministry of Information said that it was aware of foreign journalists having gained access to northeastern Syria illegally, without acquiring government visas or media approvals, and called on “all local and international media outlets” to “comply with established legal procedures at all border crossings and entry points.”
The Ministry of Interior issued a public call on January 31 for all former security officers that defected under Assad’s regime from Deir ez Zour, Raqqa and Hasakeh to consider re-signing up for work; providing a registration link for all interested.
An official from Iraq’s Foreign Ministry told media on February 1 that approximately 450 male ISIS detainees had been transferred to Iraq from northeast Syria, which was described as “extremely limited.” He added that if individuals could not be proven guilty of prosecutable crimes, they would be moved to rehabilitation centers.
The following day however, an official from Iraq’s Judicial Council said investigations had begun on 1,387 ISIS members who had been transferred from Syria.
The MOI facilitated the first day of family visits to detainees at al-Aqtan Prison in Raqqa city on February 2.
Humanitarian Developments:
A 24-truck convoy of humanitarian aid – including food, medical and other supplies – crossed into Kobani on January 27, supplied by SARC and facilitated by the government.
A convoy of approximately 500 civilians originally displaced from Afrin years ago arrived in al-Shadadi on January 27 in preparation for their return to their places of origin in Aleppo governorate.
The Saudi charity, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, distributed winter clothing and supplies to displaced residents of Suwayda currently residing in the villages of al-Mazraa, Walgha, al-Shiah and al-Dour in western Suwayda on January 27.
Governor of Suwayda Mustafa Bakkour oversaw a WFP-funded program to supply seeds and fertilizer grants to farmers in Suwayda in the village of al-Dur on January 27, to support those who were unable to receive the support in 2025.
A convoy of voluntary refugee returnees crossed from Lebanon back into Syria (directed to Aleppo and Idlib) on January 28, with UNHCR facilitation.
Local NGOs employed by the Governor’s office distributed food baskets and winter relief to displaced residents of Suwayda currently residing in Busra al-Sham in Daraa on January 28.
A 5-truck convoy of humanitarian aid arrived in Kobani, Aleppo on January 28, facilitated by the SARC and government in Damascus.
The Bahrain Royal Humanitarian Foundation granted $2 million to UNHCR to direct the rehabilitation of 470 residential buildings in Zarbeh (southern Aleppo) and Harasta (eastern Damascus) on January 29.
The Bahar NGO, working on behalf of the Governor’s office, distributed food baskets to displaced Suwayda residents currently residing in the village of Samah in the western countryside on February 1.
A convoy of 24 trucks of humanitarian aid – including food, winter assistance, baby supplies and medicine – managed by UNHCR and UN OCHA entered Kobani, Aleppo on February 2, with coordination from the Syrian government.
In coordination with the Governor’s office, the AFAK NGO distributed $230 cash support payments to displaced families from Suwayda currently residing in al-Maliha al-Sharqiya in eastern Daraa on February 3.
Justice Developments:
The Central Agency for Financial Oversight announced on January 28 that it had discovered a large-scale corruption scheme from Assad’s regime that saw more than SYP 6 billion stolen through price manipulation in contracts for suppling electricity generators in Homs.
11 detainees from the al-Aqtan Prison in Raqqa were released late on January 31 after an MOI assessment of their files determined they had either served their sentences or been imprisoned unjustly. At least one of the detainees had been arrested and imprisoned in 2019 for “allegiance” to the opposition.
A large group of former Assad regime personnel were released from Adra Prison outside Damascus on January 31.
The Central Authority for Control and Inspection announced on February 1 that it had uncovered more than SYP 1 billion in embezzlement within warehouses of the General Establishment for Printing during the time of Assad’s regime.
International Developments:
In a joint statement issued on January 27, the governments of France, Germany, the UK and the US welcomed the 15-day extension of the ceasefire in northeastern Syria and urged progress in a negotiated integration of the SDF into the Syrian state:
We welcome the 15-day extension of the ceasefire between the Syrian Government Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces announced on 24 January. We call upon all parties to strictly adhere to the ceasefire and to exercise their utmost restraint. We urge all external parties to join us in pursuit of peace and de-escalation of violence.
We reiterate the obligation of all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. We welcome the establishment of humanitarian corridors to ensure the safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance. We emphasize that these corridors must be maintained, and basic services resumed in the city of Kobane.
We also welcome the vital role played by partners, including Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government, the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces, in addressing the challenges posed by ISIS.
We urge all parties to swiftly agree to a permanent ceasefire, and to resume as soon as possible negotiations aiming at the peaceful and sustainable integration of North-East Syria into a unitary and sovereign state that effectively respects and protects the rights of all its citizens, based on the 18 January 2026 agreement, as the most effective path to stability in Syria.
We reiterate the need to maintain and focus collective efforts on the fight against ISIS. We call upon all parties to avoid any security vacuum in and around ISIS detention centers. To address these concerns, we agreed to promptly convene a meeting of the International Coalition against ISIS.
We reaffirm our support for an inclusive political transition in Syria, which protects the rights of all Syrians, and emphasize that the stabilization of North-East Syria through peaceful means constitutes a central priority for preventing a resurgence of terrorism and for regional security. We underline readiness to support and monitor, together with regional and international partners, the implementation of agreements between the parties which aim at a peaceful and sustainable integration of North-East Syria into a unitary, inclusive and sovereign state, effectively protecting the rights of all its citizens.”
According to media reporting, U.S. President Donald Trump told his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on January 27 to finalize a security agreement with Syria within one month. Reports said the single remaining point of disagreement was the status of Israeli military forces on Mount Hermon.
Later that day, President Trump also spoke by phone with his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, to discuss the ongoing hostilities and negotiations between Syria’s government and the SDF.
U.S. media reported on January 27 that a hearing had been scheduled to address the issue of Russia’s military bases in Syria to take place on February 3.
U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara on January 28, to discuss ongoing hostilities and negotiations between the Syrian government and the SDF.
Denmark’s Foreign Minister announced on January 30 that the Danish Embassy in Damascus would be opened sometime in 2026.
Lebanon’s Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri confirmed on January 30 that a deal had been agreed with Syria to return approximately 300 Syrian prisoners currently in Lebanese detention facilities. The number – specified as 260 in later media reporting – included prisoners who had served more than 10 years, whose remaining sentences would be served inside Syria, per the agreement.
Soon after the public announcement of a comprehensive integration deal for the SDF into the state on January 30, U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack declared:
Today’s announcement of the comprehensive agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) represents a profound and historic milestone in Syria’s journey toward national reconciliation, unity, and enduring stability. This carefully negotiated step, building on earlier frameworks and recent efforts to de-escalate tensions, reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, mutual respect, and the collective dignity of all Syrian communities.
For the Syrian government, this accord demonstrates a steadfast dedication to genuine national partnership and inclusive governance. By facilitating the phased integration of military, security, and administrative structures into unified state institutions — while ensuring senior SDF representatives have opportunities to contribute at high levels — it affirms the principle that Syria’s strength emerges from embracing diversity and addressing the legitimate aspirations of all its peoples. This approach not only consolidates sovereignty across the territory but also sends a clear message of openness and fairness to the international community.
For the Kurdish people, whose extraordinary sacrifices and steadfast resilience have played a pivotal role in defending Syria against extremism and safeguarding vulnerable populations, this moment holds particular significance. The recent implementation of Presidential Decree No. 13 — restoring full Syrian citizenship to those previously affected by historical exclusions, recognizing Kurdish as a national language alongside Arabic, enabling its teaching in relevant areas, and enshrining protections against discrimination — marks a transformative stride toward equality and belonging. These measures correct longstanding injustices, affirm the Kurds’ integral place within the Syrian nation, and open pathways for their full participation in shaping a secure, prosperous, and inclusive future.
In this spirit of shared purpose, both sides have taken courageous steps: the Syrian government in extending meaningful inclusion and rights, and the Kurdish communities in embracing a unified framework that honors their contributions while advancing the common good.
Together, these developments pave the way for rebuilding institutions, restoring trust, attracting the investment essential for reconstruction, and securing lasting peace for all Syrians. With unity forged through dialogue and respect, Syria stands poised to reclaim its rightful place as a beacon of stability and hope in the region and beyond.
The European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, said on January 31 that the EU had not yet concluded that Syria was safe and stable enough to justify large-scale repatriation of refugees.
CONFLICT & SECURITY:
Israel:
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into the village of al-Samdaniya al-Gharbiya in central Quneitra on January 27.
One local man was detained by Israeli military forces during a ground incursion into the village of Ayn al-Qudayrat in southern Quneitra early on January 28. He was released later that day.
One local man was detained by Israeli military forces during a ground incursion into the village of Sayda in southern Quneitra on January 28.
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into the old city of Quneitra on January 28, demolishing several buildings.
Israeli military forces fired several artillery shells into an area between the villages of Abidin and Maariyah in Daraa’s Yarmouk Basin on January 29. No casualties were caused.
Israeli military forces fired two artillery shells into the Jubata al-Khashab area of northern Quneitra on January 29. No casualties were caused.
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into the village of al-Samdaniya al-Gharbiya in central Quneitra on January 29.
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into the village of Rasm al-Rawadi in central Quneitra on January 30.
Later that day, another incursion was launched into the village of al-Samdaniya al-Sharqiya.
An Israeli crop duster aircraft sprayed toxic pesticides over agricultural land and crops in central Quneitra on January 30 – the 3rd such incident in a week.
Israeli military forces opened fire with heavy machine guns targeting an agricultural area near al-Kudna in southern rural Quneitra on January 30. No casualties were confirmed.
Israeli military forces launched two ground incursions into Quneitra early on January 31 – one into the village of Sayda, before establishing a pop-up checkpoint between Sayda and nearby Abu Mazarah; and another into agricultural areas beyond the Abu Ghaythar crossing from Israeli-controlled territory.
Later that day, another incursion was launched into Bir Ajam and then al-Rufayd in southern Quneitra.
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into the village of al-Samdaniya al-Sharqiya in central Quneitra on February 1.
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into an area located between the villages of Khan Arnabeh and Ofaniya in northern Quneitra on February 2.
Later that day, Israeli military forces also detained two local men – identified as Yousef al-Attiya and Jassim al-Mohammed – while they were herding sheep during a ground incursion into the village of Sayda al-Hanout in southern Quneitra.
Israeli military forces launched at least two artillery shells into the Jubata al-Khashab area of northern Quneitra on February 3. They caused no casualties.
Israeli military forces launched a ground incursion into the Tel Kroum area of Quneitra on February 3.
ISIS:
Three MOI Public Security forces were killed and several others were injured in an attack by ISIS militants near al-Bahra in eastern Deir ez Zour on January 29. One of the ISIS militants involved was injured and captured.
Four additional ISIS suspects were detained in the area the following day, January 30.
U.S. airstrikes reportedly struck a former Assad regime military position in the abandoned Zeynobia Resort area south of Palmyra late on January 29 – reportedly to prevent it from being used by ISIS.
Idlib:
Three civilians were injured after triggering an unexploded munition in Khan Sheikhoun late on February 2.
Aleppo:
One government soldier was killed when an IED emplaced by the SDF that he was attempting to defuse detonated near the Qara Qozak Bridge in eastern rural Aleppo on January 27.
SDF forces launched several artillery barrages at the villages of Tel Ahmar, Tel al-Abar and al-Qubba south of Kobani on January 27, causing damage to homes but no confirmed casualties.
Two civilians were killed when an IED left behind by the SDF inside their home detonated upon their return to their village near the Tishreen Dam on January 28, after being displaced.
Sporadic clashes continued between government military and SDF forces in the countryside south of Kobani on January 28, but casualty reports were not confirmed.
Three civilians were shot dead by unidentified gunmen in a targeted attack on their vehicle while it drove through rural Afrin towards Idlib on January 29.
SDF fighters opened fire with heavy machine guns targeting a small convoy of civilian vehicles containing Arab families fleeing their besieged villages of al-Qubbah and al-Jadah south of Kobani on January 31. No casualties were confirmed.
One man, identified as Ibrahim al-Thayeb, was killed when his vehicle triggered a landmine laid by the SDF outside the village of Shash al-Bubnah west of the Tishreen Dam on January 31.
Three civilians were killed and 5 others injured when they triggered a landmine laid previously by SDF fighters in Sarrin on February 3.
Latakia:
One anti-government insurgent commander and former Assad regime NDF militiaman – identified as Ali Aziz Sabra – was detained by MOI forces in a targeted raid in Latakia on January 28. He had reportedly been in communication with Assad regime 4th Division leader General Ghaith Dallah.
Tartus:
Hama:
MOI forces took control of an arms cache previously concealed by Assad’s regime in the Rabia area of western rural Hama on January 29.
Homs:
One Shia Muslim man, identified as Adnan Karesh, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in a targeted attack outside al-Ghor in rural northern Homs on January 30.
Raqqa:
A Defense Ministry demining team defused 7 barrels of explosives rigged by SDF fighters inside a drainage channel running under the Raqqa-Aleppo highway in rural western Raqqa on January 28.
One man, identified as Rami al-Dahas and accused of holding the severed braid of a female Kurdish fighter during hostilities, was detained by MOI forces on January 31.
A local clan in the western outskirts of Raqqa city handed in their son to MOI Public Security forces on February 1, as he was wanted on drug trafficking charges.
Hasakeh:
One young boy, identified as Ahmed al-Bouatha, was shot dead and another child with him was injured in SDF sniper fire near the al-Tahouneh checkpoint in Tel Alou outside Hasakeh on January 27.
One teenage boy – identified as Qaisar Madhalla – was detained by SDF forces at the Ghazal checkpoint in Hasakeh on January 27 after a video of President Ahmed al-Shsraa was found on his cell phone.
SDF forces raided the home of Shammar tribal leader Nawaf al-Jarbah in the village of al-Quneitra in rural Hasakeh on January 27, ransacking its contents but he was not present for detention.
SDF multiple rocket launcher systems launched several artillery barrages targeting the village of al-Jawadiya late on January 27.
Several government suicide drones struck SDF positions in the village of Baqilah near Cil Agha on January 27.
Sporadic clashes continued between government military and SDF forces in the countryside east of Hasakeh on January 28, but casualty reports were not confirmed. Government forces reportedly advanced north of al-Yaroubiyeh and one government suicide drone strike hit an SDF vehicle south of al-Qahtaniya.
Clashes erupted between government and SDF forces outside Tel Tamr late on January 28.
Government artillery shelling targeted SDF frontline positions in the village of al-Ghabash near Tel Jamah late on January 28.
SDF multiple rocket launcher systems launched several artillery barrages targeting the villages of al-Gharah and al-Aghibish in the countryside of Tel Tamr late on January 28.
Three men and one teenage boy – identified as Suleiman Aliyan, Hajj Ahmed al-Ibrahim, Mohammed al-Hussein and Mahmoud al-Ibrahimi – were detained by the SDF in four separate incidents in Hasakeh city on January 28 – all for posting on Facebook statements of support for the government in Damascus.
Three local men – including Ahmed Mohammed al-Jarah and his son Mahmoud al-Jarah – were detained by SDF forces in a series of raids in the villages of al-Hatimiyah, al-Bahra and al-Jabiriya outside Amuda on January 28.
A government suicide drone strike hit an SDF headquarters in the village of al-Qattaniya late on January 28, but a casualty report was not confirmed.
One man, identified as Saleh Abdulsamad al-Hamoud, was shot dead by SDF fighters at a checkpoint outside the village of Safiyah in rural Hasakeh on January 29.
One man, identified as Maher al-Atmeh, was detained by SDF fighters at a checkpoint in Hasakeh city on January 29, after pictures of President Ahmed al-Sharaa were found on his cell phone.
Three men were detained by SDF forces in a series of raids and amidst clashes in the Ghweiran and al-Nashwa districts of Hasakeh city on January 29. Local reporting claimed an initial raid had targeted a local Arab tribal leader, thereby triggering clashes. A later SDF statement accused the men of being “affiliated with the ISIS terrorist organization” – an accusation used frequently in during recent hostilities with the government to describe Arab opponents to its rule.
Syrian government media revealed on January 30 that two former Assad regime military officers – a Colonel and a First Lieutenant – had been captured while fighting within the ranks of the SDF in Hasakeh.
At least 3 Arab men, including Ahmed al-Mohammed, were detained by SDF forces in a series of raids in the village of Maabadah on January 30 targeting men for posting in support of the government on Facebook.
One Arab man, identified as Bashar Moqdad, was shot dead by SDF fighters during an argument in the village of Mama Shour near al-Malikiyah on January 31.
One Arab man, identified as Talal al-Omar, was detained by SDF fighters at a checkpoint in the village of Arour near Rumeylan on January 31, after photos of President Ahmed al-Sharaa were found on his cellphone.
At least 8 Arab men – including Hassan al-Khalaf, Ali al-Hassan, Ahmed al-Hassan, Yusuf al-Hassan, Yezan al-Ahmed, Ahmed al-Khalaf and Iyad al-Khalaf – were detained by SDF forces in a series of raids in the village of al-Qahtaniya outside Qamishli early on February 1.
The bodies of 2 Arab men were discovered, both shot in the head from close range, on the road linking Hasakeh city for Derbasiyah in northwestern Hasakeh on February 1.
At least one civilian was shot and injured by SDF fighters in the Khashman district of Hasakeh city on February 2. The incident occurred when SDF fighters briefly opened fire on local residents of Arab neighborhoods who had taken to the streets to celebrate the arrival of government MOI forces, despite an SDF-imposed curfew.
A total of 26 Arab men and boys were detained by SDF forces across Hasakeh governorate on February 2 on charges of participating in public celebrations marking the entry of gov't MOI forces or for posting expressions of support on their social media pages (Facebook & WhatsApp).
An Arab man and his wife were detained by SDF forces in a raid on their home in Rumeylan late on February 2, following a public post on WhatsApp celebrating the arrival of government MOI forces in nearby Hasakeh.
One SDF fighter was injured in a brief clash with an unidentified gunman in Hasakeh city on February 2, with the SDF saying it occurred during the entry of government MOI personnel into the city.
Deir ez Zour:
Government MOI forces detained Ghassan al-Yousef, the SDF’s former head of the Deir ez Zour Military Council in a targeted raid on January 27.
Rif Dimashq:
MOI forces detained a 2-man militant cell responsible for three rocket attacks into the Mezzeh district of Damascus in a targeted raid on January 31. They were identified as Khaled Abdullah al-Helou and Hussein Aboud al-Ali and were captured in possession of a cache of commercially available Skywalker X5 drones, which the MOI said had been acquired through Hezbollah channels. In a later TV interview, the commander of internal security in Rif Dimashq, Ahmed al-Dalati, confirmed that the two men had received Hezbollah training and “according to their confessions, they are members of the party.”
A former Assad regime militiaman and Druze militia figure, identified as Nasser al-Saadi, was detained by MOI forces in a targeted raid in Jaramana on February 2. He was wanted in Jordan on drug trafficking and organized crime charges.
Damascus:
Daraa:
A UN engineering team assisted in the neutralization of more than 60 pieces of unexploded ordnance (including landmines, IEDs and artillery shells) in a farm in the village of al-Ajmi in western rural Daraa on January 28.
Unidentified gunmen threw one grenade at the home of a local MOI officer, identified as Ammar al-Hilal, in the town of Muhajah late on January 30. No casualties were confirmed.
Unidentified gunmen threw one grenade at a vehicle belonging to a local man, identified as Ibrahim al-Khatib, in the town of Muhajah late on January 30. No casualties were confirmed.
Unidentified gunmen threw two grenades and opened fire with heavy machine guns targeting the home of Awad al-Muqadad (a local tribal elder) in Busra al-Sham early on January 31. No casualties were confirmed.
MOI forces detained 7 former Assad regime NDF militiamen, including 3 nephews of General Ghazali (known as the ‘Butcher of Qarfa’) in a targeted raid in rural Daraa on January 31.
MOI forces detained one man, identified as Abdulaziz al-Jahmani in Nawa on February 2.
The MOI announced on February 3 that a drug trafficking network based across southern Syria had been dismantled and 2.05 million captagon pills seized along with 605 packages of hashish and 151kg of other narcotics. It added that 10 helium cylinders were also seized along with 75 heavy-lift balloons; and 30 plastic mortar shells and a launch system — both used for transporting drugs across borders.
Suwayda:
Heavy clashes erupted between Druze militiamen and government MOI forces along the al-Mansoura frontline in western Suwayda late on February 1.
One man, identified as Walid al-Shoufi, was killed by having his head crushed with blunt objects by drug traffickers in the village of Summah in rural Suwayda late on February 1.