Impact of the Damascus-SDF Agreement on National Reconciliation in Syria
On March 10, a significant agreement was established between Syria’s interim government and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, aimed at national unification. Despite its potential to reshape the post-war landscape, uncertainties persist due to recent violence and a new constitution. Analysts emphasize the importance of timing and the necessity for addressing integration and power decentralization to ensure successful implementation.
On March 10, a notable agreement was reached between the interim government of Syria and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces aimed at fostering unification within the Syrian Arab Republic. Despite its ambition to integrate military and civilian institutions, the realization of this deal is uncertain following a recent constitutional declaration. President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s quest for legitimacy amid international scrutiny further complicates the situation due to ongoing violence against minority communities.
Nanar Hawach, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, remarked that the successful enactment of this agreement could significantly transform Syria’s landscape post-conflict. He emphasized the importance of timing as Damascus confronts serious security challenges, such as recent massacres and external interventions, which may have prompted the agreement’s signing.
Kurdish affairs analyst Mutlu Civiroglu highlighted that this deal allows Al-Sharaa to portray himself as a unifying leader committed to representing diverse identities within Syria. He noted the respect that SDF commander Mazloum Abdi commands across various communities, which includes Alawites and Druze, thereby enhancing the potential for reconciliation.
The SDF and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) have condemned attacks against Alawites. Abdi characterized these attacks as a systematic campaign against minorities, urging Al-Sharaa to put an end to the violence. The recent killings in Latakia province have accelerated calls for stability in the region, with many Alawites seeking refuge in the mountains.
The agreement recognizes the Kurdish community’s indigeneity in Syria, affirming their rights to citizenship and constitutional entitlements. Additionally, it requires a halt to hostilities in areas controlled by the SDF, which have been subjected to aggressions from the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army since December. The deal promises benefits not only for governance but also for economic cooperation between the interim government and Kurdish authorities.
Joshua Landis, director of Middle East Studies at the University of Oklahoma, identified the significant role of oil in the agreement, stating that this aspect will be pivotal for Syria’s reconstruction. He mentioned that while the interim government will gain control over oil fields, Kurds will receive a share of the revenues, enabling much-needed foreign investment to revitalize the oil sector.
The international community has received this move positively, with organizations such as the UN, as well as countries including Saudi Arabia, France, and Canada, presenting support. However, Hawach cautioned that the success of the agreement relies heavily on addressing unresolved integration details.
Landis acknowledged the need for a balanced approach to military integration, particularly as Kurdish forces seek to maintain their autonomy in the northeast while being integrated into the broader Syrian defense framework. As negotiations progress, conflicts surrounding the nature of authority and autonomy for minorities continue to be a pressing concern, especially in light of a newly adopted temporary constitution that centralizes power.
The SDF’s political wing expressed significant opposition to the recent constitutional declaration, stating that it perpetuates authoritarian rule rather than promoting genuine national consensus. They called for a reexamination of the document to ensure equitable power distribution and recognition of all Syrian components’ rights, reflecting ongoing challenges in fostering national reconciliation.
The recent agreement between the Syrian interim government and the Syrian Democratic Forces represents a pivotal opportunity for achieving national reconciliation in Syria. As it aims to integrate various institutions and provide recognition to Kurdish rights, the deal also faces significant uncertainties regarding implementation and adherence to the new constitutional framework. Continued violence, differing political agendas, and unresolved military integration issues remain challenges to the successful realization of this landmark agreement.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
