Syrian Government and Syrian Democratic Forces Reach Historic Agreement

Integration of SDF into New Syrian Political Framework

The newly formed government in Syria has struck a groundbreaking agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish military organization in the self-administration region of Rojava. This agreement outlines the integration of the SDF into Syria’s new political structure. The SDF is closely linked to the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), which have ties to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).

Role of SDF in the Fight Against ISIS

The SDF and its allies played a pivotal role in defeating the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria, notably liberating the city of al-Raqqah in 2017, which was then the capital of ISIS’s so-called “caliphate”. The SDF serves as the military force for Rojava, a Kurdish self-governing area in northeastern Syria that has governed itself since 2015 based on the democratic confederalist principles advocated by PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan.

Challenges from Turkey and the SDF’s New Strategy

Rojava has repeatedly faced attacks from Turkey, which views the region as a threat due to its connections with the PKK, an entity that has engaged in armed conflict with the Turkish government for decades. The agreement between the SDF and the government of Ahmed al-Sharaa, formed from Islamist factions with ties to al-Qaeda, includes a cease-fire and SDF support for al-Sharaa’s forces against supporters of former President Bashar al-Assad.

Recognition and Rights of the Kurdish People

Significantly, this agreement acknowledges the Kurdish nation as an important part of Syria, affirming their right to citizenship and constitutional rights. Border checkpoints, oil fields, and airports in Rojava will be placed under the control of the government in Damascus.

Motivations Behind the Agreement

Several factors may have influenced the SDF’s decision to reconcile with al-Sharaa’s government. The United States, a long-time supporter of the SDF, is reportedly withdrawing its support. Additionally, Abdullah Öcalan recently ordered the PKK to disarm and dissolve itself. Meanwhile, security forces loyal to al-Sharaa and their allies have been involved in the killing of hundreds of Alawites, another ethnic minority in Syria, in the coastal regions. Al-Sharaa has publicly condemned the violence, attributing it to Assad loyalists and “foreign powers”. He has announced the formation of an independent commission, including Alawites, to investigate the killings.

Analysis and Implications of the Agreement

This historic agreement between the SDF and the Syrian government under Ahmed al-Sharaa presents both opportunities and challenges. While it offers a path toward political integration and stability for the Kurdish population in Syria, it also raises significant concerns due to the controversial nature of al-Sharaa’s government and its recent violent actions against minorities. The withdrawal of U.S. support and Öcalan’s directive to the PKK may have pressured the SDF into seeking new alliances, but the decision to align with a government linked to past violence could have long-term repercussions for peace and security in the region.

Furthermore, Turkey’s reaction to this agreement will be crucial, as any perceived strengthening of Kurdish autonomy in Syria could provoke further military actions from Ankara. As the situation unfolds, the international community will be watching closely to see how these developments impact the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.

Overall, the agreement marks a significant shift in Syrian politics, with potential implications for regional stability and the future of Kurdish autonomy in the Middle East. The success of this integration will depend on the commitment of both parties to uphold the terms of the agreement and work towards a peaceful resolution of conflict in Syria.