Syria: deal struck on SDF integration, Kurdish rights in constitution

Shafaq News/ An agreement to integrate Syrian Democratic Forces with state institutions, the Syrian presidency announced on Monday.

The Syrian presidency published details of a historic agreement that includes the Syrian government's control over border crossings, airports, and oil and gas fields.

The deal also stipulates a nationwide ceasefire, guaranteeing the rights of all Syrians to political representation, participation, and the safe return of displaced citizens to their towns. Additionally, it promises protection from the state for returning refugees.

Another key aspect of the agreement is Syria's support in combating followers of former President Bashar Al-Assad, as well as rejecting any calls for division, hate speech, and attempts to sow discord. The agreement also guarantees Kurdish rights within the Syrian constitution.

In February, the leadership of the SDF announced the merger of its military and security institutions with the self-administration's security forces as a step toward integration into the Syrian army. General Commander Mazloum Abdi had invited President Ahmad al-Sharaa to visit SDF-controlled areas in northeastern Syria.

Abu Omar al-Idlibi, commander of the Northern Democratic Brigade within the SDF, revealed in February that key agreements were reached among stakeholders in northern and eastern Syria to enhance cooperation and stability. This came during a meeting between the SDF, the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), and the self-administration of northern and eastern Syria.

The US-led coalition had previously voiced support for the SDF in its ongoing discussions with the new Syrian government, aimed at fostering stability and a brighter future for the region.

In January, Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) leader Hoshyar Zebari disclosed a meeting between Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani and SDF commander Abdi in Erbil.

Zebari described the meeting as a significant achievement for strengthening Kurdish unity and enabling the new Syrian leadership in Damascus to achieve a smooth political transition.

Kurdistan Regional Government's Foreign Relations Director, Safeen Dizayee, remarked that the "sudden" changes in Syria directly affect the region and Iraq, stressing the importance of addressing the new realities in the region.