The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) refuse to disarm until ISIS is defeated, highlighting ongoing fragmentation in Syria. Senior Kurdish politician Ilham Ahmed argues for recognition of Kurdish identity amidst their historical marginalization. Ongoing talks with Syria’s new President aim to address inclusivity while discussions on future military integrations proceed cautiously.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish paramilitary group backed by the United States and currently controlling significant territory in Syria, has declared that it will not disarm until the threat of ISIS is eliminated. Ilham Ahmed, a senior Kurdish politician, highlighted the necessity of maintaining their weapons due to the resurgence of ISIS in various areas. This stance underscores the ongoing fragmentation of Syria, particularly as the new President, Ahmed Al Shara, has articulated his intentions to centralize control over the country.
Amid growing concerns of marginalization, Ms. Ahmed emphasized the plight of the Kurdish population, which comprises approximately 10 percent of the Syrian demographic and has faced significant discrimination under Bashar Al Assad’s regime. As Al Shara calls for the disarmament of all paramilitary groups, he is simultaneously advocating for inclusivity within the political landscape, having recently engaged in discussions with SDF representatives, including commander Mazloum Abdi.
The future of Syria remains uncertain as the potential integration of various paramilitary forces continues to emerge as a critical topic. Ms. Ahmed warned that persistent neglect of minority identities could lead to civil strife, asserting the need for recognition of Kurdish identity, which has been historically suppressed. The SDF aims to establish decentralized governance that secures its hard-won autonomy in northeastern Syria, a region rich in oil and gas resources.
During a recent diplomatic visit to Paris, Ms. Ahmed met with French and U.S. officials, affirming the SDF’s commitment to collaborate against ISIS. Nonetheless, the presence of approximately 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria remains subject to uncertainty regarding the potential withdrawal of support from the SDF under the Trump administration. Concern exists regarding U.S.-Turkey relations, particularly as President Erdogan perceives the SDF’s primary group, the YPG, as a terrorist extension of the PKK.
Ms. Ahmed articulated the SDF’s readiness to cooperate with the Syrian defense ministry while preserving their armament for self-defense. She noted that unlike the SDF, other militia groups have not disarmed, highlighting the SDF’s strength with an army of 100,000 personnel. Ms. Ahmed outlined conditions for integrating with the Syrian army, namely a halt to Turkish military interventions and the conclusion of the battle against ISIS.
Negotiations between the SDF and Syria’s new authorities are expected to continue, with Al Shara indicating that the SDF has shown a willingness to submit to state control of their weapons. These discussions extend beyond military aspects to include essential services for local communities, emphasizing the importance of sustained dialogue in shaping Syria’s future.
The situation in Syria is complex, characterized by the SDF’s commitment to retaining its arms until the ISIS threat is entirely neutralized. The new administration seeks to centralize control while balancing the need for inclusivity amidst historical discrimination against minorities. Ongoing negotiations and the potential for continued U.S. support will be pivotal in determining the future stability and governance of Syria.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
