SDF’s Stance on Weapons Amid ISIS Threat and Political Negotiations in Syria
The SDF, backed by the US, will not disarm until ISIS is eliminated from Syria, stressing the resurgence of the group as a key factor. Kurdish representation in political transitions and ongoing negotiations with the Damascus regime are crucial for preventing civil unrest. A commitment to inclusive governance is vital for the future stability of Syria amid complex military and political dynamics.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a predominantly Kurdish paramilitary organization backed by the United States, assert they will retain their weapons until the Islamic State (ISIS) is fully eradicated from Syria. According to Ilham Ahmed, a senior Kurdish official, continued resistance against ISIS underscores the necessity for this decision. She emphasized the recent resurgence of ISIS in various regions as a major concern, justifying their armed presence.
Syria’s Kurds, who constitute about ten percent of the population, experienced discrimination under President Bashar Al Assad and feel sidelined in the ongoing political shifts instigated by the new administration under Ahmed Al Shara. Ahmed has expressed the dire need for a political dialogue that includes minority groups, warning that exclusion could lead to civil strife. She remarked, “Should the local identities of various groups continue to be denied, this will pave the way towards an internal conflict.”
The SDF advocates for a decentralized governance structure, aiming to maintain its territorial gains from the civil war, especially in northeastern Syria, which is rich in oil and gas reserves. However, the authorities in Damascus have firmly rejected SDF requests to keep an autonomous military faction within the integrated Syrian armed forces. In light of ongoing discussions with international diplomats, Ahmed has voiced concerns regarding the marginalization of the Kurdish identity.
Despite fears surrounding potential decreased support from the United States, which has approximately 2,000 troops stationed in the region for anti-ISIS operations, US officials reaffirmed their commitment to cooperating with the SDF. Ahmed highlighted that additional paramilitary groups in Syria have not disarmed, countering arguments for the SDF to relinquish their weapons. She stated, “If they returned their weapons, where would they go?”
The prospect for future integration of SDF forces with the Syrian military appears contingent upon immediate ceasefire conditions with Turkey and the conclusion of active ISIS conflict. Ahmed acknowledged that dialogue with Syrian authorities continues, emphasizing the importance of ongoing negotiations beyond mere military concerns to include local population services.
In summary, the SDF maintains a firm stance on weapon retention until the ISIS threat is neutralized, calling for inclusive political processes amidst ongoing negotiations with the Syrian regime. Ahmed’s insights reflect the complex dynamics at play, as she advocates for maintaining both security and recognition of Kurdish rights in Syria.
The SDF’s commitment to retaining their arms until the ISIS threat is eliminated underscores their ongoing struggle for security and recognition. Continued political discourse is essential to prevent civil unrest among marginalized groups, particularly the Kurds. The ongoing dialogue between the SDF and the Syrian administration is critical for shaping Syria’s political future, with a focus on inclusive governance and local identity preservation.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
