Agreement between Damascus and the SDF amid disagreements over decentralization and merging institutions
The agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces faces uncertainty regarding the integration of military and civil institutions in northeastern Syria.
The recent agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is shrouded in uncertainty, particularly concerning the integration of military and civil institutions in northeastern Syria. Following the agreement made on January 30, leaders from the SDF have highlighted their demand for special arrangements for majority Kurdish areas, emphasizing the need to maintain the structure of the institutions created by the Autonomous Administration during discussions about the region's future.
During a recent conference in Hasakah, SDF commander Mazlum Abdi noted that the process of merging into the Syrian army might take significant time. He pointed to complications regarding the appointment of an assistant to the Minister of Defense, hinting at a potential position proposed by the SDF. This situation reflects the broader challenges involved in merging the structures of the SDF with the Syrian state while upholding the autonomy and specific needs of the Kurdish-majority regions.
The ongoing negotiations regarding the integration process underscore the delicate balance required to ensure political stability and regional security in northeastern Syria. As discussions progress, the SDF insists on preserving its administrative institutions, which raises questions about the future governance model in a country still recovering from a protracted conflict. The responses from both sides will shape the administrative landscape and security arrangements in the region.