North-eastern Syria finds itself at a crucial juncture following the fall of the Assad regime. The SDF faces renewed threats from Turkey while navigating complex regional dynamics. Abdullah Ocalan’s call for PKK disarmament may influence relations, yet significant challenges remain. As Kurdish leaders seek stability and protections for their rights, the persistence of military threats and ISIS activity underscores the region’s fragility.
In the context of evolving dynamics in north-eastern Syria, the situation remains precarious following the recent collapse of the Assad regime. Commander Zanarin Kobani of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) highlights the complexity of their operations, including a network of tunnels developed to evade Turkish drone strikes. These facilities serve as command centers and secure living spaces, emphasizing the threat to their safety.
Over the years, as the SDF fought against ISIS, their primary threat has transitioned from the Islamic State to Turkey, which views the Kurdish region as a security risk. Turkish authorities label the SDF’s primary component, the YPG, as a terrorist organization due to its ties with the PKK, a group that Turkey has long contended with. Recent calls from Abdullah Ocalan, the PKK leader, for disarmament may influence tensions between Turkish authorities and Kurdish leaders, though the implications for the region remain undetermined.
The SDF has faced ongoing military pressure from Turkish-backed forces, threatening their control over significant territories. Following the regime’s collapse, the SNA has expanded, capturing areas along the Syria-Turkey border. Commander Mazloum Abdi of the SDF recognizes the necessity of negotiations with HTS to secure stability, even as they remain wary of threats to their rights and the potential for an ISIS resurgence.
Despite the challenges from Turkish-backed factions, Commander Kobani expresses determination to defend Kurdish interests, especially regarding women’s rights, which she fears may come under threat through such occupations. The SDF seeks international guarantees to deter Turkish aggression and prefers diplomacy over military confrontations, which they might not withstand.
The Kurdish administration in the region has taken steps to engage with the new Syrian leadership, including acknowledging the new revolutionary flag and resuming oil deliveries to the central government. However, the SDF faces challenges of internal dissent among Arab communities, which could complicate alliances. Amid the backdrop of political transitions, Kurdish voices demand recognition and rights that were historically denied during Assad’s rule.
Although there are ongoing discussions of possible peace due to the PKK’s announcement of disarmament, the SDF fears being marginalized without sufficient guarantees against Turkish incursions. The priority remains stability in the context of persistent conflict and the residual threat from ISIS, with civilians calling for peace and a respect for Kurdish identities amidst the tensions.
The evolving situation in north-eastern Syria reflects significant political shifts post-Assad and ongoing threats from Turkey. The SDF navigates a complex landscape, balancing internal and external pressures while seeking to protect Kurdish rights and identity. As they pursue diplomatic avenues to ensure stability, the inherent risks of conflict and the resurgence of ISIS loom large, necessitating careful negotiation and international support to safeguard their future.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
