Ceasefire Strains as Syrian Army Moves Into Hasakah
Published : 21:28, 20 January 2026
A fragile ceasefire in northeastern Syria has come under pressure after Syrian government forces moved into parts of Hasakah, raising fears of renewed clashes with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
According to local sources, units of the Syrian Arab Army entered several neighborhoods and strategic points in Hasakah following days of tension and intermittent skirmishes.
The deployment reportedly took place under a ceasefire arrangement intended to halt fighting between government forces and the Kurdish-led SDF, which controls large areas of northeastern Syria.
Despite the truce, residents reported sporadic gunfire and heightened military presence, with checkpoints set up and movement restricted in some areas. Civilians expressed concern that the ceasefire was being enforced under pressure rather than mutual trust, creating uncertainty about its durability.
The SDF said the ceasefire was agreed to prevent further civilian harm and displacement but warned that continued advances by government forces could undermine the agreement. Syrian state media, meanwhile, described the army’s movement as a necessary step to restore state authority and maintain security.
Hasakah holds strategic importance due to its proximity to oil fields, border routes, and areas where United States forces have a presence alongside the SDF. The situation is further complicated by the interests of Turkey, which views the SDF as a security threat, and Russia, a key ally of Damascus.
Analysts say the developments highlight the fragile balance of power in northeastern Syria, where ceasefires are often temporary and shaped by shifting alliances. Humanitarian groups have urged all sides to uphold the truce and ensure civilian protection as negotiations continue.
For now, the ceasefire remains officially in place, but the army’s advance into Hasakah has left its future uncertain, with the risk of escalation still looming.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera ,BBC News, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights
BD/AN
