Syria Ceasefire Holds Amidst Civilian Fear, Resentment After SDF Withdrawal

• A fragile ceasefire is holding in Syria after government forces captured most territory previously held by Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast.
• SDF fighters will be absorbed into Syria’s army and police, ending months of disputes, but civilians on both sides harbor fear and resentment.
• Thousands of Kurdish residents fled areas like Raqqa and Deir el-Zour after the SDF withdrawal, while Arab-majority populations celebrated the change.
• Displaced civilians, like Subhi Hannan, recount harrowing experiences of displacement, assault, and theft by government forces during their flight.
• Deep distrust and resentment between Arab and Kurdish communities, fueled by accusations of discrimination and violence, threaten Syria's transition.

Why It Matters: Syria's ceasefire brings a fragile peace, but deep-seated fear and resentment among civilians persist.