The U.S. supports a deal merging the Kurdish-led SDF into Syrian state institutions, promoting non-sectarian governance. This agreement includes a ceasefire, recognition of Kurdish rights, and follows recent violence in Syria. It reflects ongoing U.S.-SDF relations amid concerns over Turkey’s position regarding the group.
The United States has expressed its approval of Syria’s agreement to unify the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) with state institutions. This endorsement follows the announcement of a pact that grants the Syrian government full authority over a semi-autonomous region administered by the SDF since 2015.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for a political transition that promotes non-sectarian governance to prevent further conflicts. He remarked, “The United States reaffirms its support for a political transition that demonstrates credible, non-sectarian governance as the best path to avoid further conflict.”
On Monday, Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi revealed that their agreement aims to merge civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into the national administration, including control over an airport and essential oil and gas resources.
This agreement marks a pivotal moment in Syria’s political landscape since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. It coincides with heightened violence affecting the Alawite minority, challenging the stability of Damascus.
The accord includes provisions for a nationwide ceasefire, SDF assistance against pro-Assad forces, and recognition of the Kurdish people’s rights to citizenship and constitutional protections. Despite prior discussions about integrating the SDF into the state following Assad’s fall, tensions regarding the group’s commitment to opposition forces had delayed an agreement.
The United States collaborated with the SDF in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS), which was eradicated in Syria in 2019. However, U.S. support for the SDF has created friction with Turkey, which perceives the SDF as related to the Kurdish Workers’ Party, considered a terrorist group by Ankara.
In summary, the United States has endorsed a significant agreement between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF, aimed at integrating the SDF into state institutions and promoting non-sectarian governance. This development addresses ongoing violence and recognizes the Kurdish population’s rights, while simultaneously navigating complex geopolitical relationships, particularly with Turkey. The situation signifies a critical juncture in Syria’s tumultuous political landscape.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
