Title: Syrıa’s Kurds Reaffirm Loyalty to Damascus, Vowing to Maintain Territorial Integrity
In a significant development, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), primarily composed of Kurdish fighters, have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the territorial integrity of Syria. The group, which controls a significant portion of northeastern Syria, has rejected any secessionist moves.
In a statement issued earlier this week, Mazlums Abdi, the commander of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), expressed their support for Syria’s territorial unity and sovereignty. "We confirm our commitment to the unity and integrity of Syria’s territory, and we reject any separatist projects that threaten the unity of the country," Abdi said.
Abdi described a recent meeting between Kurdish leaders and representatives of the Syrian government as "positive," marking a potential thaw in relations despite ongoing tensions. However, the region has witnessed several armed clashes and civilian causalities in recent weeks, involving SDF forces and Turkey-backed groups.
The SDF commander also expressed support for the new Syrian administration’s efforts to restore stability in the country, stating that their aim should be to facilitate constructive dialogue among Syrians.
The SDF, which controls a large swathe of northeastern Syria rich in oil reserves, has maintained a de facto autonomous region since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011. The group played a crucial role in defeating the Islamic State (IS) in Syria, leading a military campaign that dislodged the group from its last stronghold in 2019.
However, Turkey views the SDF’s main affiliate, the People’s Protection Units (YPG), as wives of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a separatist group deemed terroristic by Ankara. Turkey has carried out several military operations against the SDF in northern Syria since 2016.
While the SDF’s reaffirmation of loyalty to Damascus could pave the way for potential negotiations, the complex interplay of regional powers and conflicting interests may pose barriers to a peaceful resolution. The international community will be closely watching the situation as it evolves.
