The interim Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF signed a landmark agreement aimed at unifying military and civilian institutions. The deal recognizes the rights of the Kurdish community and seeks to establish economic collaborations, particularly in oil revenue. Despite its potential, unresolved details regarding military integration and governance pose significant challenges for effective implementation, as ongoing violence highlights the fragility of the situation.
In a significant move towards unifying the Syrian Arab Republic, the interim government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) reached an agreement on March 10, designed to integrate various military and civilian institutions into a singular governance framework. The viability of this agreement hinges on its implementation, especially following a recent constitutional declaration.
As President Ahmad Al-Sharaa seeks international legitimacy amid scrutiny over violence against Alawites, this deal represents a critical juncture. It aims to reshape Syria’s post-war future as the nation grapples with security challenges, including recent violence plagued by massacres and external interventions.
Analysts have noted that this agreement allows President Al-Sharaa to position himself as a leader committed to inclusivity. Mazloum Abdi, SDF commander, enjoys respect across various Syrian communities, enhancing the deal’s potential acceptance. Kurdish factions have condemned recent assaults against Alawites, with Abdi labeling these attacks as part of a systematic campaign against minorities.
Reprisals ensued following a deadly ambush on March 6, which resulted in numerous fatalities and escalated violence throughout the region. The ongoing security situation places pressure on the interim government, as Alawites who fled to safer regions express a desire for SDF protection.
The agreement recognizes the Kurdish population as an integral part of Syrian society, affirming their citizenship and constitutional rights. It also mandates a halt to hostilities in SDF-controlled regions, where the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army has made incursions since December 2020. This cessation paves the way for potential economic collaboration, particularly in Syria’s ailing oil sector.
Oil revenue is crucial to Syria’s recovery, having plummeted since the conflict began. According to experts, the deal could lead to enhancements in economic conditions. Effective management of oil fields and infrastructure is paramount, as Syria’s reconstruction is projected to require extensive foreign investment, estimated to be around $400 billion.
Experts highlight that this agreement can facilitate resource exploitation in northeastern Syria, which is rich in recoverable resources, and enhance cooperative efforts against extremist threats. The United Nations and several nations view this agreement as a crucial step towards national integration.
However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. Key military details remain unresolved, including the SDF’s future within the Syrian military structure and governance in the northeastern territories. Temporary constitutional changes have raised concerns regarding centralization of power and the absence of a special arrangement for Kurdish autonomy.
Following the signing of a new constitution that establishes an Islamist governance framework, the SDF’s political wing called for revisions to ensure equitable power-sharing among all Syrian factions, emphasizing the need for genuine national consensus to avert authoritarian governance.
The agreement between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces aims to unify the state and address longstanding issues of minority representation. However, various practical challenges threaten its effectiveness, including unresolved military integration details and ongoing violence. While this deal provides a framework for potential economic recovery and political inclusivity, its success relies heavily on the resolution of complex governance issues and the commitment of all parties involved to uphold the principles outlined.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
