Damascus, Jan. 24 (SANA) The Syrian Foreign Ministry on Saturday rejected reports claiming it had extended a deadline for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) regarding the future of Hasakah province, describing them as baseless.
Mohammad Taha al-Ahmad, Director of Arab Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, said the SDF repeatedly seeks truces and deadlines to gain time without clear objectives and spreads rumors of extensions to embarrass the state.
He said the SDF has so far not responded positively to government proposals and has consistently violated ceasefires, adding that the Syrian Government had offered senior positions to the SDF, but no candidates have been nominated.
“All options remain on the table, alongside calm and dialogue, to enforce the law, preserve Syria’s unity, and safeguard the rights of the Syrian people,” al-Ahmad said.
The official added that repeated ceasefire violations and lack of response reflect internal divisions within the SDF and the loss of independent decision-making, driven by narrow partisan agendas influenced from abroad.
Al-Ahmad also emphasized that all heavy, medium, and light weapons must be under the control of the Syrian state through the Ministries of Defense and Interior that will guarantee protection against internal and external security threats.
He described the entry of PKK elements—designated as a terrorist organization—into Syrian territory as a violation of international and Syrian law, adding that such actions would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
He noted that Damascus has no objections to specific SDF figures taking governmental positions, provided they are patriotic, reputable, and technically competent.
On Jan. 20, the Syrian Presidency announced a mutual understanding with the SDF on several issues concerning Hasakah province, granting the group four days to consult and develop a detailed plan for integrating the region.
The Ministry of Defense also declared a four-day ceasefire across all army operations in line with the agreement.
