RAQQA, Syria

The Syrian Army began transferring members of the YPG/SDF terrorist group Thursday from al-Aktan Prison northeast of Raqqa city center to Ayn al Arab in eastern Aleppo.

The members included both Syrian and foreign nationals, the army told state-run Al Ekhbariya TV.

The army's statement noted that the move was taken under an agreement reached through international mediation aimed at ensuring security and de-escalating tensions.

It added that the agreement seeks to reassert state sovereignty across the country, particularly in Raqqa.

YPG/SDF members, including Syrian nationals and foreign elements, will therefore be withdrawn from al-Aktan Prison and all its annexes, the statement said.

They will reportedly be transferred to Ayn al-Arab carrying only light personal weapons and under the supervision of the relevant authorities.

The statement also said that the entire al-Aktan Prison, including sections holding Daesh (ISIS) detainees, will be taken over by Syrian army units and relevant security institutions and that detainees will be managed in accordance with Syrian law.

The transfer and withdrawal process involves around 800 YPG/SDF members, the statement said, stressing that the step aims to prevent military escalation in the region, ensure the peaceful transfer of administrative and security authority, and maintain security in Raqqa.

The statement also noted that the Defense Ministry confirmed that the process is being carried out in line with the state’s vision to reactivate government institutions in all areas, uphold the rule of law, and preserve social stability.