SDF, CENTCOM Commanders emphasize ceasefire in Syria

Discussions involved joint operations against ISIS, rehabilitation efforts for families in the al-Hol camp, and measures to secure detention facilities holding ISIS fighters.

SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi (R) met with General Michael Erik Kurilla (L), Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). (Photo: Kurdistan24)
SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi (R) met with General Michael Erik Kurilla (L), Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). (Photo: Kurdistan24)

Jan. 18, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Mazloum Abdi met with U.S. military leaders, including General Michael Erik Kurilla, Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), to discuss the continued fight against ISIS and efforts to establish an enduring cessation of hostilities in northeastern Syria.

Abdi shared details of the meeting on the social platform X, underscoring the crucial significance of international cooperation in addressing security and humanitarian challenges in the region.

Discussions involved joint operations against ISIS, rehabilitation efforts for families in the al-Hol camp, and measures to secure detention facilities holding ISIS fighters.

The meeting took place on Jan. 16, 2025, during General Kurilla’s latest visit to Syria, part of an eight-day tour to evaluate the regional security landscape.

According to a CENTCOM statement, Gen. Kurilla was joined by Major General Kevin Leahy, Commander of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), and Brigadier General Michael Brooks, Commander of Combined Special Operations Joint Task Force-Levant (CSOJTF-L).

The visit involved a stop at the al-Hol camp, which holds over 40,000 displaced individuals, many of whom have ties to ISIS.

The statement released by CENTCOM emphasized the risks posed by al-Hol and al-Roj camps, describing them as potential incubators for the next generation of ISIS.

The camps, along with over a dozen SDF-guarded detention facilities holding more than 9,000 ISIS detainees from over 50 countries, present constant challenges for regional and international security.

According to the statement by USCENTCOM, Gen. Kurilla also reiterated CENTCOM’s commitment to supporting the repatriation of camp residents and working with the global community to transfer detained ISIS fighters to their home countries for legal proceedings.

Abdi repeated these concerns, stressing the need for international involvement in stabilizing the region. “We reaffirmed the importance of strengthening partnerships and the critical role of the U.S. in achieving a permanent ceasefire in Northeast Syria and ensuring security and stability across the entire country,” he said.

The Syrian Democratic Forces, a key partner in the global battle against ISIS, have repeatedly urged for continued international support to address the dual challenges of security and humanitarian needs.

The meeting between SDF and CENTCOM leaders underlines a shared commitment to thwarting an ISIS resurgence and nurturing long-term stability in Syria.