A landmark agreement has been signed between the Syrian interim government and the Kurdish-led SDF to unify military and civilian institutions in Syria, recognizing Kurdish rights amidst rising violence against minorities. While it promises significant economic benefits and governance improvements, challenges in implementation and constitutional authority remain critical issues for national reconciliation.
On March 10, a significant agreement was established between the interim government of Syria and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) aimed at fostering unity within the Syrian Arab Republic. There remains uncertainty regarding the deal’s execution, especially following a recent constitutional declaration that may complicate its implementation. The agreement intends to unify military and civil institutions within the state at a time of heightened international scrutiny, particularly in light of increasing violence against minority Alawites by allied militias under President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s leadership.
Senior Syria analyst Nanar Hawach from the International Crisis Group indicated that this deal, if actualized, has the potential to considerably alter Syria’s post-war scenario, particularly given the severe security challenges currently facing the nation. He elaborated that the urgent need for stability following recent attacks and interventions likely prompted the Damascus government to pursue this agreement.
The pact, which includes crucial recognition of the Kurdish community’s rights within Syria, seeks to ensure all identities are represented, as articulated by Kurdish affairs analyst Mutlu Civiroglu. The commander-in-chief of the SDF, Mazloum Abdi, is regarded as a respected figure across various communities, which may help facilitate broader acceptance of the agreement among diverse ethnic groups.
Amid the ongoing violence, Abdi has condemned attacks against Alawites, labeling them as part of a systematic campaign against minorities and urging President Al-Sharaa to intervene to prevent further bloodshed. Recent conflicts have resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating the deaths of at least 1,300 individuals since March 6, primarily due to violence fueled by ongoing tensions.
The upcoming implementation of the Damascus-SDF deal is anticipated to recognize the Kurdish community as integral to the Syrian state, affirming their constitutional rights. This entails a cessation of hostilities in SDF territory, which has faced assaults from Turkish-backed forces. The agreement not only promises recognition for Kurdish rights but also aims to stimulate economic cooperation, particularly in the oil sector, which is essential for the country’s recovery.
Joshua Landis, Director of the Center for Middle East Studies, emphasized the role of oil revenues in the agreement, noting that control over oil fields will enable the government to repair Syria’s devastated oil industry, thereby attracting foreign investments. The deal’s successful execution may enhance governance and service delivery, providing a pathway for national reintegration after years of discord.
While the pact has garnered endorsements from the UN and several international countries, the practicalities of its implementation remain to be determined. Key unresolved issues include military arrangements, particularly concerning the SDF’s integration into the Syrian Defense Ministry while maintaining an independent force in the northeast. Observers like Landis caution that many crucial details will require further negotiations.
Post-agreement, there are concerns regarding the new constitution, which appears to centralize authority, and criticisms have emerged from the SDF’s political wing opposing any authoritarian tendencies. They call for thorough reformulation to ensure equitable power distribution and affirmation of all groups’ rights, urging genuine consensus in any constitutional processes.
In summary, the deal signed between the Syrian interim government and the SDF is a critical step towards addressing national unity and reconciliation in a deeply divided Syria. While it offers recognition of Kurdish rights and aims to stabilize the region economically, major concerns remain regarding implementation and the overarching authority of the central government. The challenges ahead will test the feasibility of the agreement, particularly in the context of existing violence and constitutional disputes that could hinder genuine progress toward peace and stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
