Hasan al-Ali
Deir Ezzor governorate was one of Syria’s most complex areas, split sharply between the banks of the Euphrates River. For years, the western region part of the province was controlled by the forces of the ousted Syrian regime, while the eastern side was under the administration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This division has placed Deir Ezzor at the heart of Syria’s prolonged conflict.
However, the announcement of the recent agreement between the President of the interim government, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, and the commander of SDF, Mazloum Abdi, has ignited hopes of restoring security, stability, and normality to the region. Many view the agreement as a crucial step toward reconciliation and rebuilding.
The City and The Agreement
Mohammed al-Jasim, a 45-year-old from Deir ezzor, told +963 “We have long suffered from armed conflict and division. It has significantly affected our daily lives and led to the displacement of many families, including mine. We live in constant chaos and anxiety.”
Al-Jasim adds, “This agreement gives us a glimmer of hope for the return of the displaced persons and the improvement of the economic situation. Restoring trade and economy, and reopening bridges across the Euphrates will be a major step towards recovery.”
Hasna al-Salem, 32, also from Deir Ezzor, described the humanitarian situation in the city as extremely difficult. She expressed cautious optimism about the agreement, saying, “People here are hopeful after hearing about the agreement between SDF and the new government. There is a sense that things may improve and that things might finally be stable. Many are now talking about returning home”.
Ali al-Saleh, a local activist, believes that reopening the bridges between the two sides of the Euphrates will be a pivotal step in revitalizing the economy.
“People here urgently need stability after years of security and economic hardships,” al-Saleh said.
Talking to +963, Al-Saleh describes the situation of the people in the region, saying: “People here are cautiously optimistic after the announcement of the agreement between the SDF and the interim government. Many hope that it will bring security and stability to the region. The emotional and psychological pressure on residents has been immense, and they need peace to rebuild their society.”
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People’s Joy and National Celebrations
With the signing of the agreement, the cities of Deir Ezzor, Raqqah and Hasakeh saw spontaneous celebrations as citizens took to the streets waving Syrian flags. Many expressed their joy at what they see as a turning point that could end years of division and uncertainty.
In Hama’s Assi Square, a large gathering took place, accompanied by celebratory gunfire. In Aleppo, hundreds gathered in front of the historic citadel, holding flags and chanting slogans of national unity and cohesion.
Similar celebrations unfolded across the Syrian coast regions, Tartus and Latakia, where authorities deployed security forces to organize the gatherings and ensure public safety. Military police were stationed in various cities to oversee the celebrations and prevent any disturbances.
On social media platforms, Syrians shared images of a green-coloured map of Syria as a symbol of unity, with many calling this moment “historic”. Some described the agreement as a pivotal step towards rebuilding a Syria that embraces all its people, regardless of background.
Reactions were not confined to Deir Ezzor alone, but quickly spread to various Syrian regions, where mass rallies took place in celebration of the agreement. In Homs (a city in central Syria), crowds gathered in the city’s main square, raising Syrian flags and chanting slogans affirming national unity.
For A United Syria
On Monday, March 10, Al-Sharaa and Abdi officially signed an agreement to integrate the SDF into Syrian state institutions, reaffirming the territorial integrity of the country and rejecting any form of partition.
The agreement outlines the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces and their affiliated institutions into the structure of the state, including key facilities such as the Qamishli airport, the oil and gas fields and border crossings. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of a lasting ceasefire and guarantees the safe return of displaced persons to their homes across all Syrian regions.
According to the Syrian Presidency Office, the agreement includes provisions for Kurdish communities’ rights to citizenship and participation in the constitutional and political process. Additionally, the SDF has pledged support to the interim government in combating any remaining threats from the Assad “remnants”.
Internationally, the agreement has been met with widespread approval. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement welcoming the move, expressing support for the integration of civilian and military institutions in northeast Syria into the national framework.
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The Hopes for the Future
While the signing of the agreement has been met with enthusiasm, many questions remain regarding its implementation. Some see it as a step in the right direction but stress that real commitment and action on the ground will be necessary for its success.
Observers believe that this agreement will be a key test for all involved parties, determining whether Syria can move past years of political and military turmoil toward genuine national unity. Achieving stability will require ongoing cooperation and adherence to the agreement’s terms.
As Syria enters this new phase, the hope remains that this agreement will catalyze peace, reconstruction, and unity. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of the country and its people.
If successfully implemented, this agreement could mark the beginning of a new era, restoring Syria’s lost unity and paving the way for a better future for all its citizens.
