QAMISHLI, Syria – The Syrian government has recently announced an agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate the SDF into state institutions. This move marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict in northeastern Syria, where the SDF has maintained control over a semi-autonomous region since 2015.
The agreement, which emphasizes the unity of Syria, stipulates the merging of all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into the administration of the Syrian state. This includes key strategic locations such as border crossings, the airport, and oil and gas fields.
One of the major points of contention in the agreement is the constitutional status of the territory controlled by the SDF. The agreement includes provisions for a ceasefire across Syria and SDF support in combating pro-Assad fighters. It also affirms the Kurdish people’s right to citizenship and constitutional rights. However, questions remain about the extent of autonomy that the SDF-held territory will retain.
The US-backed SDF has played a crucial role in the fight against ISIL forces in northeastern Syria, which were defeated in 2019. However, tensions have arisen between the SDF, Turkish-backed Syrian fighters, and the Turkish government, which considers the Kurdish nationalist Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) a terrorist organization.
Discussions regarding the integration of the SDF into the Syrian state have been ongoing since the fall of long-time President Bashar al-Assad. The agreement reflects a complex political landscape in Syria, with various ethnic and religious groups vying for representation and autonomy.
The timing of the agreement with the Syrian government coincides with shifts in regional and international dynamics, including the announced plans for the US to withdraw from Syria. These changes have added pressure on the SDF, particularly following a statement by PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan calling for the group to disarm and dissolve.
Overall, the integration of the SDF into Syrian state institutions represents a significant step towards resolving the conflict in northeastern Syria and fostering unity within the country. As discussions continue and details are ironed out, the future of the region remains uncertain but hopeful.