Damascus, Syria – The announcement of a ceasefire between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on January 18 sparked hope for unity among Syrians, who celebrated in the streets. However, fighting resumed the next day, leading to resentment towards the SDF, now viewed as an occupying force rather than a liberator. As pressure mounts for SDF integration into state structures, concerns grow over potential unrest and the implications for local governance in areas long outside central control. Despite these anxieties, many in Damascus express a strong desire for unity, driven by exhaustion from years of conflict.
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