Kurds Stand Guard as Syria's Fragile Truce Holds

In Syria's northeast, Kurds are keeping watch. They don't trust the shaky truce. They remember last year's violence. They want to protect their land. They want to keep their self-rule.

A City on Guard

In Qamishli, a city mostly Kurds call home, people are volunteering for night patrols. They carry guns. They say they will defend their neighborhoods. They say they will not let outsiders take control.

Government Promises and Kurdish Skepticism

The Syrian government wants to take over Kurdish areas. It says it will respect Kurdish rights. But many Kurds do not believe them. They have seen violence before. They fear it will happen again.

Last Year's Violence

Last year, the government fought with other minority groups. Many people were killed. The government says it will punish those responsible. But Kurds are still afraid.

The SDF's Stance

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are ready to fight. They are also ready to talk. They want a political solution. They want Kurds to have rights. They want Kurds to be part of Syria.

Government's Conditions

The government says it wants to make a deal. It says Kurds can have some control. But it says they must first join Syria. Then they can talk about rights.

Hope and Caution

Some Kurds hope for peace. They hope the truce will last. They hope the government will keep its promises. But others are not so sure. They say the government must do more. They say Kurds must have real autonomy.