Negotiators from the U.S., Turkiye, Syria, and the SDF are working towards a resolution regarding Kurdish forces in Syria. The outcome may see some Kurdish fighters leave northeastern regions, while others integrate into the Syrian defense ministry. Complex issues around decentralized governance, territory control, and Turkish military threats complicate the negotiations. Support from the incoming U.S. administration will greatly impact Kurdish autonomy, and essential concessions may be necessary for a political settlement.
Negotiators from the United States, Turkiye, Syria, and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are working towards a potential resolution regarding the status of Kurdish forces in Syria. These forces have been deemed vital allies by the U.S. in the fight against Daesh, while Turkiye views them as a security threat. Recent discussions indicate that a possible agreement could see some Kurdish fighters depart from northeastern Syria and others operate under the Syrian defense ministry.
Several complexities remain for negotiators, including the integration of well-trained SDF fighters into Syria’s security framework and the administration of the territories they control, which are rich in oil and wheat resources. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi emphasized the group’s desire for decentralized governance, a challenge to the newly established Syrian government that aims to consolidate control throughout the nation.
Syria’s new defense minister, Murhaf Abu Qasra, rejected the notion of keeping the SDF as a cohesive unit, insisting that all armed groups must merge into Syria’s official military establishment. The degree of autonomy Kurdish factions can maintain may heavily depend on the incoming U.S. president, Donald Trump, and his administration’s stance on Kurdish support.
A potential ceasefire also hinges on Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s decision on whether to postpone military actions against the Kurdish militia. Ankara has long held that the YPG, a key component of the SDF, is an extension of the PKK, a group deemed terrorist by both the U.S. and Turkiye. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that the new Syrian authorities should be given time to neutralize perceived threats from the YPG.
Intensive negotiations have accelerated following the escalation of conflict led by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, as various parties including the U.S., Turkiye, and the SDF engage in discussions to avoid further destabilization in Syria. The Kurdish groups, having gained significant territory during the conflict, now find their positions increasingly precarious as influences shift in the region following Assad’s ousting.
With possible trade-offs on the table, it is likely that significant territorial and oil revenue concessions will be necessary to ensure a political settlement. Kurdish factions may also receive assurances regarding cultural and linguistic rights under a decentralized structure. The SDF remains open to negotiations, provided that governance and resource distribution is equitable.
The ongoing negotiations regarding the Kurdish forces in Syria reflect a complicated interplay of regional politics involving the U.S., Turkiye, and Syrian administration. The SDF has emerged as a crucial player against Daesh in recent years but now faces challenges with the shift in power dynamics after the fall of Bashar Assad’s regime. The involvement of the U.S. is pivotal, particularly in how they continue to support Kurdish forces amidst growing pressure from Turkiye.
In summary, the fate of Kurdish forces in Syria hangs in the balance as negotiators confront complex issues regarding their integration into a unified Syrian military. The willingness of both U.S. and Turkish authorities to agree on various demands could ultimately shape the future of the region and the security landscape following the recent political upheaval.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
