Syria's new political landscape - UPDATES

[Anthea]

Syria Open to SDF Talks

Military Action if Talks Fail

Syria’s Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra said on Wednesday that Damascus is open to negotiations with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) regarding their potential dismantling but warned that military action remains an option if talks fail

“The door to negotiation with the SDF is currently open,” Abu Qasra told reporters. “If we have to use force, we will be ready,” he added.

Last month, an official revealed that SDF representatives met with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who heads the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group that played a key role in the rebel offensive that ousted Bashar al-Assad. Sharaa previously told Al Arabiya TV that the Kurdish-led forces should be integrated into Syria’s national army to ensure that weapons remain “in the hands of the state alone.”

The US-backed SDF led the military campaign that drove the Islamic State from its last stronghold in Syria in 2019. The group has since maintained control over much of the oil-rich northeast, where they have enjoyed de facto autonomy during much of the civil war that began in 2011.

“They offered us oil, but we don’t want oil, we want the institutions and the borders,” Abu Qasra said, emphasizing the government’s stance on reclaiming authority over the region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/873099

Trying to bribe Hayat Tahrir al-Sham was not a good idea

[Anthea]

ENKS Welcomes Syrian FM’s

Support for Kurdish Rights

The Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS) has welcomed Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani’s recent statement in support of Kurdish rights, calling it a step toward building a democratic and pluralistic Syria

“We welcome this step, which clearly reflects Syria’s vision as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious state,” the ENKS presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Kurdish political body stressed that securing the constitutional rights of the Kurdish people is essential for establishing a stable and prosperous Syria.

“Respecting the rights of all components and ensuring their fair participation in shaping the future of the country is the best way to strengthen national unity and achieve stability in Syria,” ENKS added.

Al-Shaibani’s statement, posted on his personal X account in Kurdish and Arabic, acknowledged past injustices against Kurds under the Assad regime. “The Kurds in Syria have been subjected to injustice by the Assad regime, and together we will build a country where everyone feels just,” he wrote

The minister further praised the Kurdish community, stating, “The Kurds in Syria have added beauty and light to the diversity of the Syrian people.”

His remarks come a little over a month after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government on December 8, 2024. The post-Assad period has seen renewed discussions about the country’s political future and the inclusion of various ethnic and religious groups in shaping Syria’s next chapter.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/873122

[Anthea]

Syrian FM Pledges Justice for Kurds

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani has pledged to work alongside Kurds to build a just and equal Syria, acknowledging past injustices under the Assad regime

In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday morning, al-Shibani expressed appreciation for the Kurdish community, stating, “The Kurds in Syria have added beauty and light to the diversity of the Syrian people.”

He emphasized the need for unity, writing in Kurdish and Arabic, “Together, we will build a country where everyone feels equal and just.”

The message comes just over a month after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule on December 8, 2024.

Assad’s departure ended decades of authoritarian governance, with opposition forces assuming control of the country.

Syrian Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed leadership after Assad’s fall, previously acknowledged the importance of the Kurdish population in a statement on December 29, 2024.

“The Kurds are an integral part of Syrian communities,” he said, adding that it may take three years to draft a new constitution and four years to hold national elections.

The Syrian government under interim leadership is grappling with rebuilding efforts and addressing the needs of diverse communities, including Kurds, who have historically faced marginalization.

Al-Shibani’s remarks highlight a commitment to inclusivity in the post-Assad era as the country moves toward reconciliation and democratic reform.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/873047

[Anthea]

PM Barzani and Syrian FM
Discuss Rights of Kurds

Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, Minister al-Shaibani referred to the Kurds as "our sisters and brothers," affirming their integral role in Syrian society and assuring that their rights would be preserved and protected

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, marking a significant moment for regional diplomacy.

In their friendly and constructive meeting, the two leaders discussed the latest developments in Syria, explored ways to strengthen bilateral relations, and reviewed current regional dynamics.

"I met with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani at the WEF to address Syria’s future, ensuring peace, stability, and the protection of the Kurdish people’s rights must be priorities. The Kurdistan Region Government (KRG) stands ready to support meaningful solutions," Prime Minister Barzani posted on his personal X account.

Foreign Minister al-Shaibani briefed Prime Minister Barzani on the recent efforts by Syria's new administration to establish security, stability, and enhance public services for citizens.

Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, Minister al-Shaibani referred to the Kurds as "our sisters and brothers," affirming their integral role in Syrian society and assuring that their rights would be preserved and protected

Al-Shaibani extended an invitation to Prime Minister Barzani to visit Damascus, and expressed eagerness for future collaborations.

Prime Minister Barzani emphasized the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)'s commitment to peace and stability in Syria, expressing readiness to provide necessary support and assistance.

Both sides recognized the importance of protecting the rights of all Syrian communities, including the Kurdish population. Additionally, they commended President Masoud Barzani's initiatives aimed at unifying Kurdish parties, which contribute to the broader goal of maintaining security and stability in Syria.

The meeting between Prime Minister Barzani and Foreign Minister al-Shaibani underscores a warming of relations and potential cooperation between the Kurdistan Region and Syria's new administration. This dialogue is part of ongoing efforts to address regional challenges and ensure the rights and safety of Kurdish populations in Syria.

The discussions at Davos are a pivotal step towards fostering a stable and inclusive environment in the region, reflecting the broader international community's interest in supporting peace and development in the Middle East.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... -new-syria

[Anthea]

President Barzani on Syrian Kurds

“If Kurds are united, they are strong. We don’t need enemies or opponents; disunity weakens us and makes us lose opportunities”

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a comprehensive interview with Shams channel on Friday, President Masoud Barzani discussed the developing situation in Syria, the unity of Kurdish factions, and the Kurdistan Democratic Party's (KDP) recent electoral victory.

He also called for swift action to form the new Kurdistan Regional Government within two months.

Syrian Developments and Kurdish Unity

“Kurds in Syria must first unite internally and then present their demands collectively to Damascus” President Barzani

President Barzani reflected on the recent collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, remarking that while signs of its fall were noticeable, the rapid pace of events was unanticipated.

He underlined the necessity for Syria’s new authorities to recognize Kurdish rights, calling on them to translate their positive statements into concrete actions.

He advised Syrian Kurds to engage in dialogue with the new leadership in Damascus, adding, “Kurds in Syria must first unite internally and then present their demands collectively to Damascus.”

President Barzani reaffirmed his opposition to external interference, stating, “The PKK’s presence in Syria remains a considerable problem and provides justification for Turkish intervention.”

He advised Kurdish forces in Syria to work independently, make their own decisions, and prioritize unity.

Vision for Federalism in Syria

“Federalism should be an alternative to suppression and persecution, ensuring rights for all components of society,” President Barzani

President Barzani expressed optimism for a federal system in Syria, which he described as the best model for fair distribution of power and resources in diverse countries.

However, he recognized misunderstandings about federalism, underlining that it should not be equated with division.

“Federalism should be an alternative to suppression and persecution, ensuring rights for all components of society,” he said.

Meeting with Mazloum Abdi

“I advised him to unify Kurdish discourse, stay hopeful, and not allow external influences to dictate Kurdish demands,” President Barzani

Discussing his meeting with Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, President Barzani stated that he encouraged Abdi to maintain dialogue and avoid confrontation.

“I advised him to unify Kurdish discourse, stay hopeful, and not allow external influences to dictate Kurdish demands,” President Barzani said.

He also reiterated that Syrian Kurds want to remain part of Syria, seeking their rights through peaceful means.

Kurdish Unity: Strength Through Collaboration

“If Kurds are united, they are strong. We don’t need enemies or opponents; disunity weakens us and makes us lose opportunities” President Barzani

President Barzani underlined the significance of Kurdish unity across all regions, noting, “If Kurds are united, they are strong. We don’t need enemies or opponents; disunity weakens us and makes us lose opportunities.”

He emphasized continued efforts to encourage unity among Syrian Kurds, underscoring that this unity must be achieved without violence or bloodshed.

The KDP’s Electoral Success

“Despite conspiracies, the Kurdish people thwarted all attempts to weaken the party,” President Barzani

Reflecting on the KDP’s recent victory in the Kurdistan Parliament elections, where the party won 39 seats, Barzani expressed gratitude to the people of Kurdistan for their trust.

He dismissed accusations of electoral manipulation, stating that the election was conducted under strict oversight by Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court, international observers, and the UN.

Barzani criticized some Baghdad institutions and opposition groups in the Kurdistan Region for conspiring against the KDP.

“Despite conspiracies, the Kurdish people thwarted all attempts to weaken the party,” he said.

He also emphasized that if votes from Kirkuk and Mosul were included, the KDP’s total votes would surpass one million, making it the top party at the Iraq level.

Government Formation Deadline

“We don’t have a veto against anyone participating in government according to their electoral merit. Kurdistan is big enough for everyone,” President Barzani

President Barzani underlined the urgency of forming the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) within two months, rejecting any delay until Iraq’s next elections.

He confirmed that a KDP delegation is in dialogue with other parties, including the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), and reported significant progress in negotiations.

“We don’t have a veto against anyone participating in government according to their electoral merit. Kurdistan is big enough for everyone,” President Barzani said, urging cooperation and flexibility for the national interest.

On Leadership and Justice

“No problem is without a solution if there is good intention. But without it, even a thousand constitutions won’t help,” President Barzani

President Barzani concluded by stressing the importance of goodwill and collaboration in solving disputes.

“No problem is without a solution if there is good intention. But without it, even a thousand constitutions won’t help,”

He reaffirmed that the Kurdish cause remains just and strong, urging unity and caution in navigating future challenges.

A Personal Note on Qamishlo

Expressing his affection for Qamishlo and the Syrian Kurdish community, Barzani said, “Qamishlo is in my heart, and I hope to visit it soon. It’s an honor that young Kurds in Syria love me, and I feel the same for them.”

With careful optimism, Barzani reiterated his commitment to fostering peace, unity, and justice for Kurds across all regions while navigating complex regional and international dynamics.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... h-to-unity

[Anthea]

Kurdish issue in Syria internal matter

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday that the Kurdish issue in Syria is purely an internal matter and the decision must be made by Syrians

“Regarding the special status of the Kurdish region we believe that this sensitive issue is purely an internal matter of the Syrian Republic. In our view, decisions related to such an important matter as the state system should be made by Syrians themselves, without external encouragement, on the basis of national consensus,” Lavrov told Rudaw in a written response when asked whether Moscow would support an autonomous Kurdish region in Syria.

He also said that Russia supports “the strict implementation of the principles of unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Syrian Republic” and that the post-war reconstruction of Syria is only possible through the UN Security Council Resolution 2254 with the participation of ethno-confessional groups, including Kurds

In late November, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) led a lightning offensive against the Syrian army, ending over five decades of Baathist rule in less than two weeks and bringing the country’s 13-year long civil war to an end.

Following the collapse of the regime, Assad and his family left for Moscow and were granted asylum by the Russian government.

In a recent message to the Kurds, Syria’s de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharra, better known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, sought to ease their fears, saying they are “part of the homeland” and “there will be no injustice” against them.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeas ... /270120252

[Anthea]

Syria’s new rulers dissolve parliament

abolish the constitution

The new authorities in Syria on Wednesday held an unprecedented conference in Damascus, dissolving all armed groups and the country’s parliament and abolishing the country’s constitution.

Hussein Abdul Ghani, spokesperson for the so-called Military Operations Administration, was quoted by the government’s official Telegram channel as announcing several decisions taken during the conference.

“All military factions, as well as political and civil revolutionary bodies, will be dissolved and integrated into the state institutions,” Abdul Ghani said.

“We announce the victory of the great Syrian revolution and declare December 8 each year as a national day,” Abdul Ghani said, referring to the day Bashar al-Assad’s regime fell following a blistering offensive by rebels led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).

The HTS and all other armed groups who played a key role in toppling Assad were dissolved.

He also said that the parliament, Assad’s Baath party, the Syrian army, and many other regime-linked institutions were dissolved.

HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and facto leader of the transitional government, led a conference where “the victory of the Syrian Revolution” was declared.

Sharaa was officially declared the leader of the country, allowing him to assume all duties of the president

The parliament was also dissolved and the task of forming a temporary legislature was given to Sharaa, who had recently said that they need three years to draft a new constitution and four years to hold elections.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeas ... /290120252

[Anthea]

Syria’s new era begins
Ba’ath Party dissolved

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Syria’s Military Operations Department announced on Wednesday the dissolution of the Ba’ath Party, the annulment of the 2012 constitution, and the disbanding of the army and security forces, marking a seismic shift in the nation's political and military order

The Conference Declaring the Victory of the Syrian Revolution was held at the People’s Palace in Damascus, attended by various military factions and revolutionary forces.

In a statement titled "Declaration of the Revolution’s Victory," the administration appointed Ahmad al-Sharaa as Syria’s transitional president. It announced the repeal of the 2012 constitution, the dissolution of parliament, and the disbanding of the army and security forces

The statement, published by the Syrian News Agency (SANA), also declared the dissolution of all military factions, as well as revolutionary political and civil bodies, integrating them into state institutions.

Additionally, it announced the disbanding of the Arab Socialist Ba’ath Party, which ruled under the previous regime, along with the parties of the National Progressive Front.

The administration prohibited the reformation of these entities under any other name and mandated that all their assets be returned to the Syrian state.

“We declare the victory of the great Syrian revolution and designate Dec. 8 as a national holiday,” the statement read.

The statement also announced the dissolution of the People’s Council, which was formed during the previous regime, and its affiliated committees, as well as the dismantling of the former regime’s army. It outlined plans to rebuild the Syrian army on national foundations.

The statement concluded by appointing Ahmad al-Sharaa as the transitional president of Syria. He will represent the country in international forums and be authorized to form a temporary legislative council for the transitional period, which will operate until a permanent constitution is approved and implemented.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... -dissolved

[Anthea]

Al-Sharaa to form inclusive government

Syrian transitional president Ahmed al-Shara outlined key steps for the country’s political future, including forming an inclusive government



Ahmed al-Sharaa, the newly appointed president of Syria's transitional phase, announced key steps for the country's political future during his first address on Thursday.

In his speech, al-Sharaa emphasized that the transitional phase was part of a broader political process that requires the participation of Syrians both inside and outside the country. He stated, "The participation of Syrians in the political process is essential for building their future with freedom and dignity, without exclusion or marginalization."

Al-Sharaa also outlined plans to form an inclusive transitional government that reflects Syria's diversity, with equal representation of men, women, and youth. The government, he said, would focus on rebuilding the country's institutions.

Furthermore, he announced the creation of a preparatory committee to select a small legislative council to fill the current political vacuum during the transitional period. Al-Sharaa also revealed plans to establish a preparatory committee for a national dialogue conference, which will serve as a direct platform for discussions and consultations.

"Once these steps are completed, we will announce a constitutional declaration to serve as the legal reference for the transition," al-Sharaa said. He emphasized that the next priority will be achieving national reconciliation and ensuring justice through a true transitional justice process to pursue those responsible for war crimes.

On Wednesday, Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani, spokesperson for Syria's military operations, confirmed that al-Sharaa had assumed the role of president and would lead the transitional government. The interim president was authorized to form a temporary legislative council until a permanent constitution was established.

Additionally, the 2012 constitution was abolished, and all exceptional laws were suspended, including the dissolution of the previous People's Assembly and its affiliated committees.
Al-Sharaa appointed as president

The Syrian Military Operations Department announced a series of sweeping changes on Wednesday, including the dissolution of key political and military institutions associated with the previous regime.

Speaking in an official statement, Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani declared the dissolution of the Arab Socialist Baath Party and the National Progressive Front, effectively dismantling the political structure that had ruled Syria for decades.

Abdul Ghani also announced the dissolution of the former regime's army, stating that a new Syrian army would be rebuilt "on national foundations" to serve the country's interests.

Furthermore, he confirmed that Leader Ahmed al-Sharaa had assumed the presidency during the transitional phase and is now serving as the president of the Syrian Arab Republic.

https://english.almayadeen.net/news/pol ... im-parliam

[Anthea]

When considering Syria
the world should be patient

Syria should be able to approach its future with careful and inclusive steps backed by plenty of international assistance. Syrians are starting to trade, to mend, to plan. They deserve our support and our patience, IOM Director General Amy Pope writes

Syria is a mix of hope and fragility. Its people, including those separated and exiled from their homes for so long, are rightly celebrating the end of a 14-year brutal conflict that killed so many and ruined countless lives.

The war that wrought so much destruction has left Syria barely able to function. What we need now is a mix of patience and generous assistance so Syria can get back on its feet and avoid a reversion to more chaos and difficulty

When I visited Syria in mid-December, the joy was palpable. You could sense the gratitude and tentative optimism that the millions of people who have suffered would finally get the chance to chart a future that includes peace, stability and security.

Yet in the eyes of the people I spoke with, I could also sense apprehension, a worry that is entirely understandable. Even before the fall of the prior regime, nearly 17 million people in Syria needed humanitarian assistance, 4.2 million in the northwest alone.

And now, fully into winter, about 600,000 people are newly displaced from homes. The economy, reliant on cash, is in shambles. Supply chains are very dysfunctional, commercial activities have been disrupted, and critical services are barely present.

Everyone in Syria feels the impact. Getting access to even the basic essentials is difficult and few can afford much more than that: about 90% of Syrians live in poverty.

Even those with professional backgrounds are suffering. A young resident doctor at a public hospital told me she had to take on other work because she could not get by on her salary of the equivalent of $50 (€47.9) a month

The humanitarian infrastructure in Syria is at its limits, overstretched and severely underfunded. It is weighed down by barriers put in by the al-Assad regime that prevented assessing the needs and getting access to delivering help.

Allow reconstruction and assuage fears

Immediately, the priority for the international community should be delivering significant assistance. The most vulnerable, including those displaced, along with host communities and returnees, need food, water, hygiene and sanitation and other essential items.

Nations should also consider exempting Syria from long-imposed sanctions, especially to allow development and reconstruction efforts to begin. Even as humanitarian assistance increases, the redevelopment process that is key to Syria’s future needs to begin soon.

Donor countries now hosting large Syrian communities should focus their development aid to help rebuild the neighborhoods to which these Syrians would return, and they should enable the Syrian communities to be part of these rebuilding efforts.

To reassure the international community, the caretaker government should follow through on its early signals that it favours a pluralistic society that respects the rule of law — including housing, land and property rights, and the human rights of all

This would alleviate the concerns of some Syrians who have crossed into Lebanon out of fear of what might happen to them. The caretaker government must take steps to reassure these groups.

And at this critical time, nearby nations such as Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Türkiye — who Syrian refugees relied on during the war — can play key roles of assistance and support to help ensure Syria and its people have the chance at lasting peace. However, these countries need ongoing financial support to sustain the provision of such critical assistance.

The caretaker government and the international community should also be getting the input of the Syrian diaspora, people who have the most to gain from the stability and security of their country.

Some of the diaspora have already gone back home, and others are considering returning to support the transition and reconstruction. The right to go back to one’s home has always been sacrosanct and should remain so.

But that does not mean Syria is ready to manage a large-scale return of the Syrians who have been living as refugees or awaiting asylum claims in Europe and neighbouring countries.

Syrians deserve our support and our patience

Sending millions of people back to Syria, as some have suggested, risks ripping apart the still-new stitches that are binding this proud nation’s wounds. The frail public, government and economic infrastructure cannot support that scale of returns, and such a plan could increase chaos and eventually lead to more migration away from Syria.

The Syrians living elsewhere need something to come back to: schools that can educate, hospitals and medical facilities that can care for people, businesses that can buy and sell and employ

That’s why investing in education and healthcare, along with other community development work, will be essential. The Syrians who want to go home need to know that when they do, they are making the right decision to go home for good.

They need to know where their children will go to school. They need to know if their home is still there and if it is safe to be in their former community — large parts of the country, for example, are riddled with cluster munitions, missiles, landmines, grenades and other deadly explosive ordinance.

We are hearing that Syrians in neighbouring countries want to make "go-and-see visits," and we advocate for all asylum countries to allow that to happen. However, they need an enabling environment that allows them to do that in safe and secure way.

Syria should be able to approach its future with careful and inclusive steps, backed by plenty of international assistance.

The international community has a vested interest in Syria’s success and its potential to be an anchor for a more peaceful, stable Middle Eastern region, one in which people want to move to rather than have to move from

Yet bringing that era into a reality requires a collaborative approach, careful planning and a long-term commitment.

Syrians are starting to trade, to mend, to plan. They deserve our support and our patience.

Amy Pope is Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

https://www.euronews.com/2025/01/28/whe ... be-patient

[Anthea]

Western Kurdistan Condemns Damascus Conference

The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (ANNES) in Western Kurdistan on Sunday condemned the newly established authorities in Damascus for holding what it called an "illegal" conference attended by individuals it described as terrorists

On Wednesday, the new authorities in Syria held an unprecedented conference in Damascus, where they announced the dissolution of all armed groups and the country's parliament while also abolishing the Syrian constitution. They declared Ahmed al-Sharaa as the new leader of the country. The event was attended primarily by military figures, including commanders from Sharaa’s Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the pro-Turkey Syrian National Army (SNA).

The Western Kurdistan administration strongly criticized the meeting, particularly due to the presence of individuals it accused of terrorism and war crimes. "We affirm that such a meeting is illegal and does not represent the aspirations of Syria's components," the administration stated.

Among the attendees were Ahmad Ihsan Fayyad al-Hayes, known as "Abu Hatem Shaqra," the leader of Ahrar al-Sharqiya, and Mohammad Hussein al-Jasim (Abu Amsha), the leader of the Suleiman Shah Brigade. Both have been sanctioned by the US for their alleged involvement in human rights abuses. Abu Hatem Shaqra has been accused by Syrian Kurds of orchestrating the assassination of Kurdish female politician Hevrin Khalaf in October 2019 during Turkey’s military offensive against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Nadine Maenza, former chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), expressed shock on social media at Abu Hatem Shaqra’s participation in the Damascus conference. "We are all rooting for Syria to succeed, but that can only happen by including the rich diversity of all religious and ethnic communities in the country," she stated.

The ANNES also condemned Damascus for excluding various ethnic and religious groups from the political process. "Processes taking place outside the framework of the Syrian National Conference and without the participation of political, revolutionary, and popular forces are considered incomplete," the statement noted, emphasizing that a truly inclusive national dialogue is essential to achieving stability in Syria.

The new Syrian administration has announced plans to hold a national conference that includes all ethnic and religious groups, though no date has been set. However, the Western Kurdistan administration warned that excluding any Syrian party or community would prevent meaningful progress. "Excluding any party or component will prevent achieving the goals of our people's revolution, and the reality will not differ from the previous regime," the statement added.

Despite the tensions, the new Syrian security forces have not clashed with the SDF, and discussions are ongoing regarding the future of the Kurdish enclave and the possible integration of the SDF into the country’s security apparatus.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/874059

[Anthea]

Will SDF hand over weapons to

new Syrian administration?

While discussions continue about the deadline for the SDF to announce its dissolution and hand over its weapons to the new administration, tense negotiations are underway between the two sides

SDF-controlled areas in Western Kurdistan have recently witnessed a major escalation in Turkish air and ground operations. Turkish raids have targeted al-Qamishli, al-Hasakah, the countryside of Aleppo, and al-Raqqa, while Ankara-backed National Army factions have launched intense ground attacks on the Tishreen Dam and Qara Qozak Bridge.

Their objective appears to be securing control over these areas and crossing from the western to the eastern bank of the Euphrates River. Meanwhile, the Damascus government has deployed military reinforcements to the frontline near SDF-held territories in the northeast, further complicating the situation.

While discussions continue about the deadline for the SDF to announce its dissolution and hand over its weapons to the new administration, tense negotiations are underway between the two sides, marked by frequent media exchanges. Ahmad al-Sharaa, previously (Abu Muhammad al-Julani), had said, “The Kurdish People’s Protection Units are the only ones who refuse to hand over their weapons as part of the plan to integrate the factions into the structure of the Syrian army.”

The commander of the SDF, Mazloum Abdi, responded to these accusations by saying that “Turkey is exerting pressure on the new Damascus administration to prevent it from negotiating with the SDF, despite the ongoing talks taking place between the two parties in the presence of representatives from the US, Turkey, and France."

The SDF believes that integrating its members into the Syrian army as individuals would weaken the organization, ultimately leading to its gradual dismantling. However, it is generally open to joining the Syrian army as a unified bloc, provided that its approximately 100.000 fighters remain in their areas and retain their autonomy. The same applies to the internal security forces (Asayish), with proposals suggesting their incorporation into the Damascus government’s Ministry of Interior.

On the other hand, the new Syrian Defense Minister, Marhaf Abu Qasra, revealed that the SDF offered to hand over the oil file to the Damascus government, but the matter was rejected

In addition to many points of contention between the two parties, including education, security control, and the demand for Damascus authorities to access all state institutions in the eastern Euphrates in exchange for granting the Kurds cultural rights and government representation, which the SDF considers disproportionate to what it has provided over the past years, a major obstacle remains: “Damascus’ demand that the SDF hand over the prisons and camps housing ISIS members and their families."

The SDF completely rejects this demand for several reasons. First, the issue serves as a crucial bargaining chip that allows the SDF to secure significant Western support. Second, there is concern over a repeat of events in Assad-controlled provinces on the night of December 8 of last year, when prison doors were opened indiscriminately, releasing all inmates regardless of their crimes. This raises serious risks of ISIS-affiliated prisoners being freed, especially at a time when the SDF remains on high alert amid reports of the organization’s resurgence, having previously exploited the Syrian regime’s collapse to expand its territorial control.

Notably, in SDF-controlled areas, there are over 25 prisons holding more than 12,000 detainees who fought for ISIS. These detainees come from more than 55 countries with the majority being from Syria and Iraq.

Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, made a historic first-of-its-kind visit to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, where he met with its leader, Masoud Barzani. Barzani is spearheading an initiative to unite the Kurds, who remain divided between the Syrian Democratic Forces, which leads the “Autonomous Administration", and the “Kurdish National Council”, which is aligned with Barzani. The US has previously attempted to mediate such unity efforts multiple times but has so far failed to achieve a lasting consensus.

Baghdad recently hosted a visit by the Turkish Foreign Minister during which he urged Iraqi authorities to escalate their stance on the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) by reclassifying it from a banned organization to a "terrorist organization", paving the way for its elimination. He also proposed the establishment of a joint military operations room to confront the Kurdistan Workers' Party.

The visit is seen as a preliminary step toward an agreement to hold future meetings in Baghdad, bringing together regional leaders from Syria, Turkiye, Iran, and representatives of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. These discussions aim to address longstanding disputes and escalating security challenges, particularly those that have intensified since the fall of the Syrian regime.

Everyone was waiting for Trump to officially take office to clarify the US stance on the SDF. The new Secretary of State addressed this during a Senate session, stating, "The US will continue to support the SDF in the operation against ISIS. I warn against abandoning allies.

One of the reasons we were able to dismantle ISIS is because the Kurds guard the prisons that hold ISIS members. We will ask Turkey not to take any hostile actions against them." This statement was a disappointment for Turkiye, which continues to seek Trump's approval for a military operation in the region. Turkiye has offered guarantees that US bases in Kurdish-controlled areas would remain untouched, but so far, Washington has not endorsed its plans.

https://english.almayadeen.net/articles ... an-adminis

[Anthea]

SDF willing to restrict weapons

to Damascus’ hand

Syria’s interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa said on Monday that there are ongoing talks between Damascus and the SDF authorities in Western Kurdistan, adding that the Kurds are willing to restrict weapons to the state’s hands but did not hide that there are disagreements

“The states supporting the SDF are in agreement on the unity of the Syrian state and controlling weapons in its hands,” Sharaa told pro-government Syria TV in an interview aired on Monday, referring to the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). “There are negotiations to resolve the northeastern Syria file with the SDF.”

SDF is the de facto army of Western Kurdistan

“The SDF has shown willingness to restrict weapons to the state's hands, but there are disagreements on some details,” Sharaa elaborated.

The SDF has repeatedly said that it is willing to join the new security apparatus but with conditions.

SDF chief Mazloum Abdi told AP on Sunday that in principle they want to be part of the defence ministry, adding that they have sent a proposal to Damascus regarding the issue and “ “we are waiting for the response.”

The Western Kurdistan administration on Sunday condemned the new authority in Damascus for recently holding an “illegal” conference with the participation of “terrorists.”

The new authorities in Syria on Wednesday held an unprecedented conference in Damascus, dissolving all armed groups and the country’s parliament while abolishing the country’s constitution. They also officially declared Ahmed al-Sharaa the new leader of the country.

The key participants of the event included commanders from Sharaa’s Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the pro-Turkey Syrian National Army (SNA). It was an all-military and all-men meeting.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeas ... /030220252

[Anthea]

Peaceful Approach Negotiating with Kurds

Syria’s new government seeks a peaceful resolution for asserting authority over the Kurdish-led Western Kurdistan rather than using military force, Syrian Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra told The Washington Post in an interview published Thursday.

Abu Qasra stated that a military solution would result in unnecessary bloodshed and that the government believes in a negotiated settlement. His comments come as Syria’s interim authorities continue talks with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) over the region’s future, with Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently claiming that the Kurds have agreed to limit weapons to state control.

However, key disagreements persist

The Kurdish administration has criticized the new government, alleging that a recent Damascus conference included figures accused of human rights abuses against Kurds, including the killing of a female politician. Meanwhile, SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi has called for a decentralized and secular Syrian state that respects the rights of all communities.

Kurds in Syria faced systemic discrimination under the Baathist regime but established an autonomous administration during the civil war, gaining global recognition for gender equality and playing a critical role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). The US still maintains about 2,000 troops in SDF-controlled territory.

Abu Qasra confirmed that the presence of US forces in Syria remains a subject of negotiation. He suggested that discussions between the new Syrian government and Washington are ongoing and linked to former US President Donald Trump’s potential return to office, hinting that a decision on American troop withdrawal could come soon.

He also revealed ongoing negotiations with Ankara over the reduction or repositioning of Turkish troops in northern and northwestern Syria. Turkey has maintained a military presence in these areas since its incursions against Kurdish-led forces.

Damascus remains open to Russia’s continued military presence in Syria, including the Hmeimim airbase in Latakia and the Tartus naval base. Abu Qasra noted that Moscow’s past support for Assad had complicated relations, but new agreements could be reached that prioritize Syria’s interests.

A Russian delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov met with President Sharaa on January 28. According to Russian state media, Bogdanov expressed gratitude that Russian assets were not harmed during Syria’s recent transition of power.

Farhad Shami, SDF spokesperson, confirmed ongoing discussions with Syria’s new authorities, particularly concerning Kurdish-populated areas of Aleppo and Afrin. However, he warned that Turkish interference is complicating negotiations.

Shami stated that SDF officials urged Damascus not to treat Kurdish areas as the previous government had but claimed that Turkey has influenced the Syrian government’s position. He also emphasized the need to reverse demographic changes in Afrin and restore stability in the city.

Regarding a potential US troop withdrawal from Rojava, Shami stated that discussions with international coalition forces, including the United States, are ongoing. He expressed uncertainty about Syria’s future and urged the US to consider input from its military personnel in the region before making a decision.

Shami concluded that the SDF is prepared for any outcome, including a potential withdrawal of US forces, while continuing to advocate for Kurdish rights in negotiations with Damascus.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/874548

[Anthea]

Armed groups in Syria refuse to disband

Armed factions in Syria are reacting to a recent decision by the new leadership in Damascus to dissolve all armed groups

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) say they want to align with government forces while retaining their current organizational structure and hierarchy. "The SDF is keen on joining Syria’s defense system as a bloc,” an informed SDF source told Rudaw, but to “maintain its formations,” he added.

The source further explained that a force directly linked to Damascus “could be established from members of the SDF to serve as border guards.” The new force would include members of “the local populations of each region,” the source explained, indicating that such forces would not only be made up of Kurds.

It is important to note that Damascus-affiliated security forces have not clashed with the SDF. On the contrary, discussions are underway between the new Syrian leadership and the Kurdish administration in Western Kurdistan about the future of the Kurdish enclave and the potential inclusion of the SDF in Syria’s security forces.

Syria's Defense Minister, Murhaf Abu Qasra, stated on Sunday that "a military solution with the Kurds in northeastern Syria would lead to the bloodshed” of both Damascus-affiliated forces and the SDF. In an interview with the Washington Post, the minister said that the new Syrian leadership is keen on resolving tangled issues with Western Kurdistan “through diplomatic means."

Meanwhile, an informed source from the Free Syrian Army downplayed the importance of Damascus’s early February decision. “Nothing has changed for us,” the source told Rudaw, emphasizing that their “mission is to protect civilians in our regions or beyond.”

In Syria’s southern Druze-majority Suwayda province, armed and political groups have refused to disband their forces. Samir Azzam, the Coordinator of the Association of Secular Democratic Syrians, told Rudaw that the government in Damascus is a de facto one. He argues that it represents only one Sunni group, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is still classified as a terrorist organization.

Azzam ruled out any dealings with the current leadership in Damascus, adding that “the province will remain under the protection of [local] defense forces until the Syrian people reach a solution.” He argued that “the appropriate solution for the Syrian crisis is to establish a federal Syrian republic that gives rights to all Syrian components," he said.

Swathes of Syrian territories remain under the control of Druze, Kurdish-led forces and other armed groups. Many Syrians and foreign powers are concerned that HTS, which played a major role in ousting Bashar al-Assad in early December, may impose an Islamic rule in the country, threatening minority groups such as Alawites, Christians, Druze and Kurds.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeas ... /100220252