U.S. Envoy Tom Barrack Calls Syria–SDF Deal ‘Historic Milestone’ for National Reconciliation

Peregraf- U.S. Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack on Friday welcomed the comprehensive agreement reached between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), describing it as a “profound and historic milestone” in Syria’s journey toward national reconciliation, unity, and lasting stability.

In a statement following the announcement, Barrack said the agreement reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, mutual respect, and the collective dignity of all Syrian communities. He noted that the deal builds on previous frameworks and recent efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and ending years of fragmentation.

According to Barrack, the accord demonstrates the Syrian government’s commitment to genuine national partnership and inclusive governance by enabling the phased integration of military, security, and administrative structures into unified state institutions. He highlighted provisions allowing senior SDF representatives to participate at high levels of governance as a key signal of political openness.

“This approach affirms that Syria’s strength lies in embracing its diversity and addressing the legitimate aspirations of all its peoples,” Barrack said, adding that the agreement also sends a message of fairness and responsibility to the international community.

Barrack emphasized the agreement’s significance for the Kurdish people, pointing to their central role in combating extremism and protecting civilians during the conflict. He welcomed the implementation of Presidential Decree No. 13, which restores full Syrian citizenship to those affected by past exclusions, recognizes Kurdish as a national language alongside Arabic, allows its teaching in Kurdish-populated areas, and establishes legal protections against discrimination.

“These measures correct long-standing injustices and affirm the Kurds’ integral place within the Syrian nation,” Barrack said, describing them as a transformative step toward equality, belonging, and inclusive participation in Syria’s future.

The remarks came as the Syrian government and the SDF formally announced the agreement on Friday, January 30, 2026, confirming a permanent ceasefire and a framework for the sequential integration of military and administrative bodies. 

According to a statement from the SDF Media Center, the deal requires the withdrawal of forces from primary lines of contact and the deployment of Syrian Ministry of Interior security forces into the city centers of Al-Hasakah and Qamishli as part of a broader security transition.

The military provisions include the formation of a new division composed of three brigades drawn from the SDF, as well as the establishment of a dedicated Kobani brigade operating under a military division within Aleppo Governorate.

Administratively, the agreement calls for the dissolution of the Autonomous Administration’s independent structures and their full integration into Syrian state institutions, while guaranteeing permanent civil service status for current civilian employees. It also addresses Kurdish civil and educational rights and commits both parties to ensuring the safe and voluntary return of internally displaced persons to their homes.

Barrack said the steps taken by both sides — the Syrian government in extending inclusion and rights, and Kurdish communities in embracing a unified national framework — pave the way for rebuilding institutions, restoring trust, attracting reconstruction investment, and achieving lasting peace. 

“With unity forged through dialogue and respect,” he said, “Syria has an opportunity to reclaim its place as a source of stability and hope in the region.”