The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) will maintain their weapons until ISIS is defeated, reflecting ongoing tensions in Syria’s political landscape under President Ahmed Al Shara. The SDF seeks decentralized governance and recognition of Kurdish identity while expressing concerns over marginalization and civil unrest. Ongoing negotiations with the Damascus authorities will determine future integration and cooperation amidst calls for disarmament.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed Kurdish militia overseeing significant territories in Syria, have stated that they will retain their weapons until ISIS is fully defeated. This declaration raises concerns regarding the future stability of Syria, particularly as President Ahmed Al Shara aims to restore central governance over the entire nation. Ilham Ahmed, co-chair of the SDF’s foreign affairs and a prominent Kurdish politician, emphasized the necessity of maintaining armaments due to ISIS’s resurgence in certain regions.
The Kurds, representing roughly ten percent of Syria’s population, have faced historical discrimination under President Bashar Al Assad’s regime and now feel excluded from the political transition initiated by the new authorities in Damascus. President Al Shara’s call for the disarmament of all paramilitary factions faces resistance, as the SDF seeks to ensure representation and safeguard its autonomy. During a recent meeting in Damascus, Al Shara discussed inclusivity with SDF leaders, which may influence Syria’s political landscape moving forward.
Ahmed Ahmed cautioned that the ongoing marginalization of ethnic minorities, including the Kurds, risks inciting civil unrest. She pointed out that the previous regime systematically negated Kurdish identity, which continues to hinder recognition by the current authorities. The SDF is advocating for decentralized governance, aiming to establish a self-governing region in northeastern Syria, home to about 70% of the country’s oil and gas resources.
Despite the SDF’s aspirations for autonomy, the new Damascene leadership, which includes the now-defunct Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), has dismissed SDF’s requests for independence within the integrated Syrian armed forces. During her attendance at an international ministerial conference in Paris, Ms. Ahmed engaged with US and French diplomats, highlighting the ongoing support from the United States for the SDF in the battle against ISIS, although formal representation from the US government was limited.
Concerns persist regarding the potential withdrawal of US support from the SDF by the current administration. Approximately 2,000 US troops remain in Syria as part of an anti-ISIS coalition, amid fear that President Trump could reevaluate this commitment, particularly due to his alignment with Turkish President Erdogan against Kurdish forces, deemed terrorist by Turkey and some Western countries. The SDF, comprising a well-organized force of 100,000 personnel, asserts their right to remain armed for the time being.
In discussing the possibility of integrating the SDF into the Syrian army, Ms. Ahmed stated that there must be a ceasefire with Turkey and an end to the ISIS conflict before consideration. She expressed hope for eventual collaboration with the Syrian army, emphasizing that any disarmament would only occur after security concerns are adequately addressed. Dialogue between the SDF and the new Syrian leadership will likely continue amidst talks surrounding military operations and local governance issues.
In a recent statement, Al Shara acknowledged the SDF’s willingness to submit to state control over their arms while recognizing the need for ongoing discussions to find common ground. Ms. Ahmed underscored the importance of maintaining communication, asserting that discussions extend beyond military matters to include essential services for local communities.
The Syrian Democratic Forces remain firm in their stance to retain arms until the threat from ISIS is fully eliminated. The ongoing dialogue between the SDF and the newly established authorities in Damascus reflects the complex dynamics that shape Syria’s governance and security landscape. Continued marginalization of Kurdish and other minority identities could pose serious risks for civil peace and require careful negotiations to ensure stability in the region. President Al Shara’s commitment to inclusivity is essential for fostering cooperation and mitigating potential conflicts. The future of Syria hinges on resolving the intricate balance of power, particularly concerning the integration of the SDF into the national framework regarding security and resource management.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
