Syrian government strikes a breakthrough deal with Kurdish-led forces

The new Syrian government has signed an agreement aimed at integrating Kurdish armed forces within a separatist region, which played a crucial role in the fight against the Islamic State terrorist organization. This move is viewed as a significant step by the Syrian government towards achieving national unity and stability, reflecting a commitment to a more inclusive future.

Syrian interim President Ahmed Shala'a and Kurdish leader Mazloum Abdi signed the agreement on Monday, March 10, in Damascus. Since 2014, the Kurdish administration has been managing an autonomous region called Rojava in northern Syria. The status and future direction of this region have been sensitive issues in the Syrian situation, requiring careful negotiation and compromise.

The United States has provided weapons and training to the Syrian Democratic Forces, which have played an important role in defeating the Islamic State within Syria. However, Turkey has long opposed Kurdish autonomy and has launched attacks on the region, citing its association with the banned terrorist organization Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Turkey's stance adds to the complexity of the situation in the region, creating a delicate balance of power.

The new Syrian government stated that the agreement reached with the Kurds will incorporate the autonomous administration into the Syrian state. In a statement, the government said that the agreement includes "incorporating all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria, including border crossings, airports, and oil and gas fields, into the administration of the Syrian state." The statement also emphasized "ensuring that all Syrians, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, have the right to representation and participation in the political process and all national institutions based on merit."

The statement also mentioned "recognizing the Kurdish community as an integral part of the Syrian nation, enjoying full citizenship rights and constitutional protection." Videos on social media show residents of northeastern Syria celebrating the agreement reached with the government, hoping that it will end the fighting with Turkey and armed groups. The Syrian government and the Kurdish administration have pledged to implement the agreement by the end of the year. Currently, the Kurdish administration continues to protect thousands of former Islamic State members and internally displaced persons in eastern Syria. U.S. forces are also stationed in the region to continue the fight against Islamic State remnants and protect oil fields.