YPG/PKK detains 23 in Syria's Hasakah for welcoming government forces

2026-02-03 - 08:35

The YPG/PKK terrorist group has detained 23 local residents in northeastern Syria's Hasakah city for publicly welcoming the arrival of Syrian government security forces. According to sources on the ground, the detentions took place on Sunday after civilians greeted a convoy of internal security forces affiliated with the Syrian Interior Ministry. Entry Under a Recent Agreement The deployment of the Syrian government forces occurred as part of a reported agreement between the Damascus regime and the YPG/PKK, which controls large parts of the region. The entry of the convoy into Hasakah's city center marked a notable, albeit limited, return of official Syrian state presence to the area. Detentions Defy Celebratory Public Despite an active curfew imposed by the YPG/PKK, residents reportedly took to the streets to celebrate the arrival of the security forces. In response, the terrorist organization apprehended 21 individuals in Hasakah's city center, with additional detentions reported in the Rmelan district and the town of Almabde. The move highlights the group's efforts to suppress public displays of support for the Syrian state. Context of Regional Control The YPG/PKK, the Syrian offshoot of the PKK terrorist organization, has maintained control over parts of northeastern Syria for years, often with support from certain international actors. Türkiye, which recognizes both the PKK and YPG as terrorist entities, has consistently highlighted the threat they pose to Syria's territorial integrity and to regional stability.