US Endorses Syria-Kurdish Agreement, Advocates Non-Sectarian Governance
The United States has endorsed an agreement between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to merge civil and military institutions. This marks a significant political development amidst ongoing violence in the region. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizes the need for non-sectarian governance as essential for preventing further conflict. The agreement challenges US-Turkey relations due to differing views on the SDF.
The United States has expressed approval of the recent agreement between Syria and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to incorporate the SDF into state institutions. This follows a deal announced by the Syrian presidency, granting the central government full authority over a semi-autonomous region administered by the SDF since 2015.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the US commitment to supporting a political transition that emphasizes credible, non-sectarian governance as vital to preventing further conflict. Rubio noted the need for vigilance regarding recent acts of violence against minority groups.
The agreement was made public by Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, who outlined plans for merging all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria. This includes significant facilities such as an airport and oil and gas fields and is considered a crucial moment in the Syrian political landscape.
This deal comes amidst a turbulent backdrop as Damascus faces recent violence within the Alawite minority territory, advocating for a ceasefire across Syria and SDF cooperation against pro-Assad fighters. The negotiations surrounding SDF integration have spanned several years, hindered by differing perceptions of the group’s commitment to opposing the deposed regime.
The United States’ strategic partnership with the SDF has been instrumental in combating the ISIS group, which was effectively eliminated in Syria in 2019. However, this support has complicated US-Turkey relations, as Turkey regards the SDF as a branch of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, which it classifies as a terrorist organization.
In conclusion, the agreement between Syria and the Kurdish-led SDF represents a pivotal development in the ongoing civil conflict, reflecting a significant shift towards integrating the Kurdish forces into Syria’s political structure. The US government, led by Secretary Rubio, continues to press for non-sectarian governance and remains cautiously attentive to the situation regarding minority rights and violence in the region. The outcome of this agreement may play a crucial role in shaping Syria’s future governance and stability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
