In a statement on Tuesday, the Syrian Democratic Council (MSD) described confidence-building measures as a fundamental prerequisite for a political solution in Syria. MSD emphasized that concrete steps toward the release of detainees and the improvement of the humanitarian situation are necessary in order to advance the political process.
The MSD statement reads as follows:
“Amid the continued deterioration of humanitarian and living conditions across Syria, and in light of the growing economic and security challenges facing communities in various regions, the Syrian Democratic Council affirms that meaningful confidence-building measures remain essential to advancing the political process. The MSD views such measures as a necessary foundation for restoring trust and creating the conditions required for a comprehensive political solution. In this context, it reiterates its support for all serious and responsible steps aimed at the full and coherent implementation of the understandings reached on January 29, 2026, in a manner that produces tangible and measurable results on the ground.
The MSD welcomes the release of dozens of detainees in Hasakah Governorate and considers this development a constructive and positive step.
At the same time, the MSD notes similar measures taken in other Syrian regions within the framework of amnesty decisions. While recognizing their potential significance, it stresses that these steps must evolve into a comprehensive and sustainable approach. Such an approach should ensure the release of all detainees without discrimination and address this issue in a transparent and nationally responsible manner. Only through inclusive and consistent action can this file contribute effectively to rebuilding trust and strengthening confidence at the national level.
The MSD calls for prompt and serious action to initiate prisoner exchange operations between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian government. It considers such exchanges an urgent humanitarian step and a central confidence-building measure within the framework of the January 29 understandings. Advancing this path would help alleviate human suffering and create more favorable conditions for moving the political process forward.
The MSD further urges that this path be reinforced through the release of all detainees and individuals held on unlawful or arbitrary grounds. It stresses the importance of adopting clear and transparent mechanisms to ensure that these measures are implemented in full respect of the rule of law and international human rights standards.
In this context, the MSD emphasizes that the issue of arbitrary detention remains one of the most serious challenges affecting public confidence in de-escalation efforts and the broader political process. Addressing this matter comprehensively, and across all Syrian territories, is essential to ending such practices and consolidating the principles of the rule of law and equality among all citizens.
Additionally, the MSD notes with appreciation the return of approximately 400 displaced families from Afrin to their areas of origin. While recognizing the importance of this development, it stresses that such steps must be part of a comprehensive and sustained approach to addressing the broader issue of displaced communities. This approach should ensure a safe, voluntary, and dignified return, safeguard housing and property rights, and address the violations that accompanied displacement in order to prevent their recurrence and strengthen social stability.
Furthermore, the MSD emphasizes that restoring access to local roads and crossings, particularly around the cities of Kobani and Hasakah, is an urgent humanitarian and economic priority. Improved access would facilitate civilian movement, stimulate economic activity, and strengthen social cohesion. It also underscores the importance of guaranteeing freedom of movement and residence for all citizens without discrimination.
In the MSD’s view, the successful implementation of the understandings requires not only the genuine commitment of the concerned parties, but also a responsible and supportive regional and international environment. Such support is essential to consolidating these steps and transforming them into a sustainable path that promotes long-term stability.
Moreover, the MSD affirms that consolidating stability across all Syrian regions, including Northeast Syria, is fundamental to the stability of the country as a whole. Progress in this regard would positively impact regional security, reduce the risks of renewed instability, and reinforce ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.
In addition, it stresses that the implementation of the understandings must proceed in a balanced and synchronized manner by all parties. This is necessary to ensure that their implementation is neither obstructed nor undermined and to lay the groundwork for a new phase of joint action based on trust and national responsibility.
Guided by its vision of a democratic and decentralized Syria, the MSD underscores its readiness to engage constructively and actively in any serious national path that leads to a comprehensive and sustainable political solution. Such a solution must ensure the meaningful participation of all Syrians, preserve the unity of the country, and uphold the dignity of its people.
The MSD states that tangible progress in confidence-building measures, coupled with genuine political will, can pave the way for the launch of a responsible national dialogue. This dialogue should serve as the foundation for building a new Syria grounded in justice, partnership, and pluralism.”
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