Kurdish Militia Leader Vows to Support Syrian Army Amid Rising Pressures
As-salamu alaykum dear brothers and sisters,
Mazloum Abdi, the Kurdish commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has reaffirmed his intention to cooperate fully with the new Syrian state. This comes after the United States helped prevent a large-scale conflict between his forces and the Syrian government in Damascus.
He mentioned that the SDF aims to become a modest yet vital part of Syria's renewed army, though he did not say the group would disband entirely. Talks about integrating the forces are expected to start soon in Damascus. The SDF, which controls much of northern and eastern Syria, plans to keep playing a key role in the ongoing fight against ISIS.
The Kurdish situation remains a sensitive issue since the new government took charge last December, following the removal of the Assad regime. The previous regime was toppled by groups including Hayat Tahrir Al Sham, which has roots linked to Al Qaeda.
Despite gaining regional support, the new authorities have yet to reach an agreement with minority communities in this predominantly Sunni Muslim country. Recently, tensions nearly escalated into full urban conflict in Aleppo, and fighting continues in central and eastern parts of Syria.
A ceasefire was announced recently after meetings between Mr. Abdi and government representatives, helped by US mediation. The SDF had previously cooperated with the former regime in recapturing eastern Aleppo from rebel groups in 2016.
According to a security source in the region, Syrian defense forces have been moving armored vehicles to key fronts to prepare for potential clashes with the SDF.
Turkey, a significant supporter of the Syrian opposition, also plays an important role in the Kurdish issue. The Turkish Defense Minister has called for the SDF to disarm unconditionally. Meanwhile, Syrian security officials have been in talks with Turkish representatives to discuss counter-terrorism efforts, as Turkey considers the SDF linked to the PKK, which it deems a terrorist organization.
The areas under SDF control are central to Syria's economy, energy, and power production. Recently, Syrian officials have expressed frustration over the SDF's perceived delay in implementing a merger agreement signed in March. The SDF, on the other hand, accuses the government of focusing only on disbanding their forces without addressing Kurdish rights and the need for a non-sectarian political system.
May Allah grant peace and unity to Syria and all Muslim lands, and may He guide all leaders to work towards justice and harmony among all communities.
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