France supports SDF-Damascus deal, reinforces backing for Kurds
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – France has emerged as a key international supporter of the recent agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Syria’s transitional government, viewing the deal as a step toward stability in northeastern Syria and the protection of Kurdish rights, according to an analysis published by Al-Monitor on Feb. 2.
Paris welcomed the agreement signed in late January between SDF leadership and Damascus, which established a ceasefire and outlined mechanisms for security coordination and gradual integration of institutions.
French officials have stressed the importance of implementing the deal through dialogue and confidence-building measures, amid concerns over renewed escalation, Al-Monitor reported.
French President Emmanuel Macron held separate phone calls with Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa and SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi, urging both sides to uphold the ceasefire and work toward a unified Syria that guarantees the rights of all its components, including Kurds.
The analysis noted that France has long maintained political and military ties with the SDF as part of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.
According to Al-Monitor, France sees the agreement as an opportunity to prevent further conflict in northeastern Syria and limit the influence of regional actors seeking to undermine Kurdish autonomy.
Paris has also coordinated closely with the United States and European partners to support stabilization efforts and humanitarian access in the region.
Tensions between the SDF and Damascus escalated in recent months following clashes in parts of Hasakah and Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood, prompting international mediation efforts.
The transitional government, formed after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s rule, has sought to reassert authority.
The agreement includes a ceasefire, security coordination, and talks on the future of local administration. While welcomed internationally, its implementation remains fragile, amid lingering mistrust and unresolved political questions.