Saudi Arabia has welcomed the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syria’s military institutions, following a landmark agreement reached earlier this year.
The milestone directly aligns with Riyadh’s strategic vision for a unified, sovereign Syrian state, reflected in Riyadh’s support for Damascus’ return into the Arab fold and its swift economic recovery.
A Defining Milestone for Syria’s Unity
The Big Picture: The Saudi Foreign Ministry issued a statement welcoming the SDF’s move, saying it would contribute to boosting security and stability for Syria and its people.
In the statement, the Kingdom reaffirmed its support for the steps taken by the Syrian government to meet the aspirations of the Syrian people in advancing unity and development. It also wished Syria and its people continued security, peace and prosperity.
SDF Integration: The End of Fragmentation
State of Play: On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi announced in a televised speech the dissolution of the Kurdish-led forces. He added that the announcement followed an agreement with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa after the integration of the group’s forces into the army.
What He Said: “We announce today the end of the mission of the Syrian Democratic Forces and announce with full responsibility its dissolution as an independent military force.” – Mazloum Abdi, SDF Commander.
Between the Lines: The SDF and the Syrian government reached a 14-point Ceasefire and Full Integration Agreement in January 2026, ending clashes in Kurdish-held areas in northeastern Syria and allowing Syrian state institutions to reassert control over three eastern and northern governorates, al-Hasakah, Deir Ezzor and Raqqa. It also called for the full integration of the SDF military and security personnel into the Syrian Ministries of Defense and Interior on an individual basis, after security vetting, in exchange for official ranks and state benefits.
How the Integration Benefits Syria
Zoom In: The SDF, with US support, played a pivotal role in defeating ISIS. The Kurdish-led forces controlled more than 12 prisons in northeastern Syria, holding an estimated 9,000 ISIS members. Following the January agreement, the management of these prisons has shifted to the central government in Damascus. Furthermore, northeastern Syria is home to vital oilfields, agricultural land, and water resources.
Why It Matters: By integrating into the Syrian state institutions, the SDF transfers its extensive expertise in fighting terrorist groups to the national army, bolstering counter-terrorism efforts. Moreover, the return of the northeastern region’s resources under Damascus control directly supports Syria’s economic recovery.
Saudi Support: A Pillar of Syria’s Recovery
The Context: Saudi Arabia has been a strong advocate for Syria’s unity, stability, and state sovereignty. The Kingdom has supported the return of Damascus to the Arab fold, ending its regional and global isolation, and lifting international sanctions.
Go Deeper: Spearheading an intensified diplomatic push, Saudi Arabia has championed the lifting of Western economic sanctions on Syria and its removal from the US terror list. The Kingdom has also reiterated its support for Syria’s territorial integrity, rejecting any moves that undermine the country’s unity.
The Impact: Riyadh’s efforts have yielded positive outcomes, effectively ending decades of economic isolation to embark on Syria’s reconstruction.
International Sanctions Relief:
The US
- The Caesar Act: Congress formally repealed the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, removing secondary sanctions that previously penalized foreign entities doing business with state institutions.
- Removal from US Terrorism List: The State Department officially removed Syria from the State Sponsor of Terrorism list, reopening access to international banking and global trade.
- Executive Orders: Washington terminated the core Syria national emergency framework, lifting general trade, energy, and financial restrictions.
European Union
The EU suspended broad sanctions across Syria’s trade, transport, banking, and energy sectors.
The UK
The UK lifted financial and economic sanctions on public infrastructure and state assets to streamline international aid and commerce.
The UN
The UN Security Council passed resolutions lifting travel bans and asset freezes directly targeting President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and key transitional officials.
Saudi Arabia’s Firm Position on Sovereignty
The Anchor: Saudi Arabia has stressed its unwavering position on Arab sovereignty, reaffirming that the Golan Heights are occupied Syrian Arab territory and categorically rejecting Colombia’s decision to recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the occupied region. The Kingdom has also voiced its strong condemnation of Israeli incursions into Syrian territories.
The Strategy: Riyadh’s position aligns with its longstanding policy regarding state sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Kingdom has consistently supported legitimate state institutions and rejected any attempts to undermine the security and stability of countries.
The Bottom Line: The SDF integration serves as a key bridge toward state rebuilding, as well as long-term national and regional security and peace. The Saudi Foreign Ministry’s statement reaffirms the Kingdom’s strong commitment to Syria’s unity, recovery, and economic prosperity.
