The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supported by the US, will maintain their weapons until ISIS is eradicated in Syria. Ilham Ahmed, a Kurdish leader, expressed concerns over marginalization and emphasized the need for continued autonomy. President Ahmed Al Shara’s push for disarmament may clash with the SDF’s stance amidst ongoing security threats. Future negotiations could determine the dynamics of power and integration within Syria’s armed forces.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-supported primarily Kurdish paramilitary group controlling significant regions of Syria, intend to retain their weapons until the threat from ISIS is eliminated on Syrian soil. This statement, made by Ilham Ahmed, a senior Kurdish politician, highlights the ongoing fragmentation in the country as the newly established President Ahmed Al Shara expresses intentions to restore central governance. Ms. Ahmed emphasized that maintaining armaments is necessary due to the resurgence of ISIS in certain areas of Syria.
Syria’s Kurd population, which constitutes approximately 10 percent of the total populace, has historically faced discrimination during Bashar Al Assad’s regime. They feel increasingly marginalized in the political restructuring led by the new authorities in Damascus. While President Al Shara has called for disarmament among paramilitary groups, he professes a commitment to inclusivity, as evidenced by discussions held with SDF leaders, including Commander Mazloum Abdi.
Continued neglect of Syria’s minority groups may exacerbate internal conflicts, as warned by Ms. Ahmed. She noted that the previous regime overlooked Kurdish identity, further complicating the current situation. The SDF advocates for decentralized governance to preserve their territorial gains and seeks autonomy over regions rich in Syria’s oil and gas resources. However, Damascus authorities have dismissed the SDF’s proposals for an autonomous force within the national military structure.
Ms. Ahmed participated in discussions in Paris alongside US and French diplomats, although she did not attend an international conference on Syrian support due to the lack of a Kurdish foreign minister. US officials reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the SDF in the fight against ISIS, despite fears regarding the potential reduction of support from the US administration.
The SDF comprises a formidable force of approximately 100,000 personnel, unlike other paramilitary groups that remain armed. Discussions regarding the SDF’s integration into the Syrian army hinge on essential conditions, including a ceasefire with Turkey and the end of ISIS hostilities. If Turkish military actions cease, the SDF expresses a willingness to cooperate with the Syrian army against ISIS, opening the door for potential integration in the longer term.
Negotiations between the SDF and the new Syrian leadership are expected to persist. Earlier in January, Mr. Al Shara indicated that the SDF had shown a readiness to place their weapons beneath state control. Ongoing dialogues are vital, addressing not just military concerns but also essential services for local populations, as highlighted by Ms. Ahmed.
The dialogue surrounding the future of Syria’s Kurds and the ongoing threat of ISIS is complex, influenced by regional politics and military conditions. The SDF stands firm in its stance to retain arms until the ISIS threat diminishes, indicating a commitment to safeguarding Kurdish interests while navigating the challenging landscape of Syrian governance and ethnic relations. Continuous discussions with new governmental leaders may pave the way for future cooperation and potential integration, contingent upon the cessation of external conflicts.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
