The Syrian interim government and Kurdish-led SDF signed a landmark deal on March 10 aimed at unifying military and civilian institutions within Syria. Analysts suggest the agreement could reshape the nation’s post-war landscape amidst current security challenges and violence against minority groups. While offering potential economic benefits and recognition of Kurdish rights, concerns remain regarding the details of implementation and an Islamist declaration that might centralize power.
On March 10, a significant agreement was signed between the interim government of the Syrian Arab Republic and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to advance national unification. This agreement aims to integrate military and civilian institutions into the Syrian state. However, uncertainty surrounds its implementation due to a recent constitutional declaration amid increasing scrutiny over violence against minority groups.
Analysts suggest that if enacted, this deal could substantially alter Syria’s post-war dynamics. Key individuals, such as Nanar Hawach from the International Crisis Group, emphasize the critical timing of this agreement, especially given the current security threats, including massacres and external interventions that prompted Damascus to pursue this accord.
According to Mutlu Civiroglu, a Kurdish affairs analyst, the agreement enables interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa to position himself as a leader promoting inclusiveness among diverse identities in Syria. The respect commanded by SDF commander-in-chief Mazloum Abdi extends beyond the Kurdish community, resonating among Alawites, Druze, and Christians as well.
Kurdish groups, including SDF and Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, voiced strong condemnation of recent violence against Alawites. Abdi accused these attacks of forming part of a systematic campaign against minorities and urged governmental intervention to end the violence. The turmoil escalated significantly on March 6, marked by a deadly ambush in Jableh, resulting in numerous fatalities and prompting retaliatory killings.
As violence surged, Rami Abdulrahman from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights highlighted that many fleeing Alawites believe an SDF presence could provide them refuge. The new deal recognizes the Kurdish community’s rights and indicates a ceasefire in SDF-controlled areas. It assures acknowledgment of their citizenship and constitutional rights, which were previously unmet.
The agreement also holds economic significance, notably in oil management. Joshua Landis from the Center for Middle East Studies stated that this aspect will be essential for generating revenue for a prospective unified Syria. Although the interim government will control oil fields, the Kurds are expected to receive half of the revenues, facilitating potential foreign investments critical to reviving Syria’s oil sector.
Hawach asserted that the successful application of this agreement could offer significant economic advantages, particularly since the northeast region is resource-rich. The cooperation could also foster joint efforts against threats such as Daesh, improving governance and stability across Syria. This negotiation has garnered international support, including from the UN and several Western and regional nations.
Despite these positive developments, analysts caution that the agreement’s success rests on resolving unresolved practical details. While Landis notes the autonomy of northeastern Syria is acknowledged, he emphasizes that many logistical intricacies require future negotiations, particularly concerning military integration and the distribution of powers.
Landis also reiterated concerns regarding the lack of provisions in the new constitution for Kurdish autonomy. Recently, Al-Sharaa enacted a temporary constitution establishing an Islamist framework for a transitional period. The SDF’s political branch promptly rejected this declaration, advocating for a complete reformulation to ensure equity in power distribution and safeguard the rights of all Syrian demographics.
In summary, the agreement between the Syrian interim government and the Kurdish-led SDF marks a pivotal step towards national reconciliation, though its success remains contingent upon addressing unresolved issues and implementing practical measures. The integration of military and civilian institutions, potential economic benefits, and recognition of Kurdish rights signify progress, yet the newly declared constitution raises concerns around centralization and minority representation. Continued dialogue and cooperation will be crucial for achieving a stable and inclusive Syria in the aftermath of prolonged conflict.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
