Damascus – The Syrian government and Kurdish forces have reached a historic deal to integrate Kurdish military and civilian institutions into the Syrian state. This agreement, announced on Friday, aims to unify the country and gradually integrate Kurdish-controlled regions. The deal was praised by Washington as a “historic milestone,” marking a new phase in Syria’s political landscape.
Under the new agreement, the Syrian government will maintain control over all civilian and governmental institutions, as well as border crossings. Kurdish forces, including three Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) brigades, will be integrated into the Syrian army in Kurdish-majority areas like Hasakeh. The deal also includes creating a brigade for Kobane, the town known for its key role in fighting ISIS.
The agreement follows weeks of tension, as the Kurdish-led SDF had ceded large areas of land to government forces, territory they had controlled since fighting ISIS. It also includes a permanent ceasefire and addresses Kurdish demands, such as the creation of ethnically based brigades in Kurdish-majority regions. However, the deal still leaves some key details unclear, particularly regarding the system of administration and security decentralization.
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Despite progress, many Kurds remain wary. Kurdish politician Elham Ahmad, who was involved in the negotiations, expressed hope that the U.S. and France would play fair roles in the implementation. However, some Kurds remain distrustful of the Syrian government, citing past atrocities, such as massacres against minorities.
The deal is seen as a significant step toward peace, but experts warn that much remains to be negotiated. Lars Hauch, a Syria expert, noted that while the deal is a positive sign, the specifics of its implementation are still uncertain. The situation remains fluid as both sides work to finalize the details.
