U.S. senator urges Syria to honor ceasefire, warns against Kobani attacks

Jan 21, 2026

Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) General Mazloum Abdi and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland.

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland said on Wednesday that he is deeply concerned about recent developments in Syria, calling for immediate steps to preserve stability and prevent further escalation.

In a statement on the situation in Syria, Van Hollen said he has been closely monitoring rapidly changing events after decades of conflict and oppression that have undermined security for Syrians and the region.

I just got off the phone with General Mazloum, head of the SDF.

The U.S. must demand the Syrian govt immediately comply with the ceasefire.

The SDF has been our chief partner in the fight against ISIS & we must ensure they're treated fairly in the ongoing integration process.… pic.twitter.com/tyn6isvOXa
— Senator Chris Van Hollen (@ChrisVanHollen) January 21, 2026

The senator said he recently spoke with the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), General Mazloum Abdi, regarding reports that the Syrian government is violating a recently reached ceasefire, including in the city of Kobani.

Van Hollen described the SDF as a close U.S. partner and a key force in the fight against ISIS, stressing that Washington has an obligation to ensure the group is treated fairly.

He urged the United States to immediately demand that the Syrian government comply with the ceasefire and refrain from attacking predominantly Kurdish areas.

The senator also emphasized the need for Washington to work to return both sides to the negotiating table before the ceasefire expires, in order to reach a fair agreement that fully integrates the SDF into the Syrian government.