Syria’s interim government has signed a significant agreement with Kurdish-led SDF forces, aiming to integrate SDF entities into state institutions. This deal will enable Syrian control over key areas, boost Kurdish rights, and facilitate the return of displaced populations, marking a crucial step toward unifying the country under central governance.
On a recent Monday, Syria’s interim government achieved a significant milestone by signing a pivotal agreement with the Kurdish-led authority, which oversees the northeastern region of the country. This agreement presents a ceasefire and outlines the integration of the primary US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the Syrian army, signifying a notable shift in control towards the Syrian government.
The accord, endorsed by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the SDF, is aimed at consolidating Syria under the government’s influence. This move is particularly noteworthy as the government is currently led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which previously ousted President Bashar al-Assad in December.
Set to be implemented by year-end, the agreement will enable the central government to assume authority over all border crossings with Iraq, Turkey, as well as airports and oilfields located in the northeast. Additionally, management of prisons housing approximately 9,000 alleged Islamic State (Isis) members is expected to transition to government control.
In terms of concessions, Syria’s Kurdish population will gain their “constitutional rights,” which include the ability to use and teach their language—previously prohibited under the Assad regime. Moreover, this agreement may facilitate the return of hundreds of thousands of Kurdish individuals displaced during the protracted civil conflict that has devastated Syria for nearly 14 years.
The recent agreement between Syria’s interim government and the Kurdish-led authority marks a significant development in the political landscape of the country. It outlines a ceasefire and integration plan that not only aims to centralize control over various strategic regions but also extends constitutional rights to Kurds, promising their cultural recognition and the possibility of repatriation for displaced populations. This breakthrough may pave the way for more stability in the region as Syria seeks to navigate the complexities of its ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
