UN urges Syria, SDF to fully end hostilities, ensure safe returns after ceasefire

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - The UN human rights office on Monday urged the Syrian army and the Syrian Democratic Forces to fully end hostilities following a newly announced ceasefire, stressing the need for safe returns for displaced civilians and accountability for human rights violations.

In a statement to Anadolu, UN human rights spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said the office “notes the new agreement to put an end to the hostilities” between the two sides.

“Both parties must now ensure that the hostilities are brought to an end and that those displaced can return safely and securely to their homes,” he said.

Al-Kheetan emphasized the importance of accountability, saying justice must prevail and that “all those who committed human rights violations and abuses must be held accountable.”

He also cautioned against the unconditional integration of the SDF into state security structures, underlining the need for safeguards grounded in international human rights standards.

“Any integration of troops into the security forces must take place within a proper human rights-based vetting process to ensure any individuals involved in human rights violations or abuses are not integrated,” he said.

The statement comes amid heightened international scrutiny over civilian protection and post-conflict accountability in Syria.

On Sunday evening, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced a ceasefire and an agreement for the full integration of the SDF into state institutions.

The announcement followed a military operation by the Syrian army, which regained wide areas in eastern and northeastern Syria after what officials described as repeated violations by the SDF of earlier agreements signed with Damascus nearly a year ago.