Cautious return to Hasaka after ceasefire extension

Cautious return to Hasaka after ceasefire extension

Kurdish families have gradually begun returning to Hasaka in northeast Syria following the extension of a fragile, US-brokered ceasefire that temporarily halted a Syrian-led military campaign against Kurdish-held areas. Despite the reduced threat of immediate fighting, residents say uncertainty remains.

Markets reopen as families come back

Local markets in Hasaka’s Mufti neighborhood have resumed activity after many residents fled the area last week over fears that violence could spread further into the Kurdish-majority province.

Background of recent military escalation

In mid-January, Syrian government forces and allied armed groups launched a broad offensive aimed at retaking territories held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) for nearly ten years, areas previously liberated from the Islamic State (ISIS).

Residents organize local protection

With the ceasefire in place, some residents have taken steps to protect their neighborhoods. Kurdish resident Zhima Zave said that people of all ages remain outside their homes at night to watch over their streets, expressing continued trust in Kurdish fighters and hope for their safety.

Community patrols continue overnight

Another resident, Abdulrazzaq Zave, said that households across Hasaka are taking turns patrolling at night, adding that many families remain armed as a precaution amid fears of renewed clashes.

Ceasefire linked to ISIS detainee transfers

The ceasefire extension is intended to facilitate the transfer of ISIS detainees from SDF-run detention facilities in Syria to Iraq. The move follows an initial four-day truce announced earlier this month.

SDF remains on high alert

Despite the truce, SDF forces continue to maintain heightened readiness along multiple frontlines in Hasaka province, citing sporadic attacks by Syrian government troops and allied armed factions.

Calls for political solutions

Local residents say lasting stability depends on political dialogue. Kurdish resident Salah Khalil said that renewed war would serve no one’s interests, stressing that ordinary people want peace rather than further destruction.

Arab residents express shared concerns

Arab residents of Hasaka echoed similar concerns. Ali Abdullah said civilians can no longer endure the current tension, while Hamid Haji warned that fear of the unknown persists due to past experiences with shifting control.

Uncertain future after ceasefire

Unlike parts of eastern Aleppo, Deir ez-Zor, and Raqqa, Hasaka province remains under SDF control, with forces deployed throughout the area. However, it remains unclear whether Damascus will attempt to change the situation once the ceasefire expires.