The US supports a new deal integrating Kurdish-led SDF into Syrian state institutions, emphasizing non-sectarian governance. This agreement, marking a significant political shift, includes a nationwide ceasefire and recognition of Kurdish rights but poses challenges for US-Turkish relations due to Turkey’s view of the SDF as a terrorist-linked group.
The United States has endorsed an agreement to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syria’s state institutions. This decision follows a deal announced by the Syrian presidency and the SDF granting the central government total control over a semi-autonomous region administered by the SDF since 2015.
In a statement, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed support for a political transition that emphasizes credible and non-sectarian governance, a crucial element to mitigate future conflicts. Details concerning the recent violence against minorities were also expressed with concern, with plans to monitor interim authorities’ actions closely.
The agreement, established between Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, aims to merge all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into the national administration, covering critical infrastructures such as an airport and oil fields. This development marks a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in December.
The deal’s components include a nationwide ceasefire, SDF backing against pro-Assad fighters, and affirmation of the Kurdish population’s integral role in Syria, including their citizenship and constitutional rights. Despite earlier discussions on SDF integration since al-Assad’s fall, obstacles existed due to perceptions of the SDF’s commitment to opposing the regime compared to other opposition factions.
The US has historically partnered with the SDF in the campaign against the Islamic State (ISIS), which faced defeat in Syria in 2019. However, Washington’s support for the SDF has led to tensions with Turkey, which views the group as affiliated with the PKK, labeled as a terrorist organization by Ankara.
The United States’ endorsement of the agreement to integrate the Kurdish-led SDF into Syrian governance signals a strategic shift aimed at fostering non-sectarian governance in Syria. This agreement is vital for national stability and incorporates crucial parts of Syria like oil fields and airports into a unified state system, while also addressing minority representation and rights amidst ongoing violent conflicts. The geopolitical implications, along with US-Turkey relations, continue to evolve from this critical juncture.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
