North-East Syria Faces Tensions Amid Calls for Peace and Regional Instability
Commander Zanarin Kobani of the YPJ manages an extensive tunnel system in Kobani, Syria, aimed at protecting against Turkish drone strikes. The SDF faces a critical juncture following Ocalan’s call for PKK disarmament while navigating threats from Turkey. Tensions in the region persist as the SDF seeks diplomatic channels, prioritizing negotiation over military confrontation against ongoing aggression from Turkey and its proxies.
In Kobani, a city in north-eastern Syria, Commander Zanarin Kobani of the YPJ monitors a web of tunnels built to evade Turkish drone strikes. The semi-autonomous Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) utilize these tunnels for operational safety. Despite having fought against ISIS, the new primary threat has emerged from Turkey. Turkey regards the Kurdish groups as terrorists due to their ties with the PKK, prompting ongoing tensions in the region.
The recent call for disarmament by Abdullah Ocalan, the PKK leader, raises questions about its potential impact on the Kurdish-led administration in Syria. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi described Ocalan’s appeal as significant but asserts that it pertains specifically to the PKK and does not directly involve the SDF. Over recent years, Turkey has conducted military operations in the region, seeking to expand its influence amidst the shifting political landscape following the fall of the Assad regime.
The SDF is navigating a precarious situation as it engages with the HTS-led government for stability while trying to safeguard their rights. Commander Kobani emphasizes that any Turkish occupation will be resisted, insisting on international safeguards against further aggression. The SDF is now focusing on diplomatic efforts rather than military confrontation, acknowledging the recent withdrawal of US forces as a complicating factor.
While the SDF seeks to negotiate, they face discontent among local Arab communities within the majority Sunni region. Mustafa Al Shara of HTS has expressed the need for unity among Syrian factions, creating friction with the SDF’s stance. Instances of violence between protesters and SDF forces have erupted in recent weeks, indicating unrest in formerly regime-controlled areas.
Despite these challenges, SDF leaders view the PKK’s decision to disband as a positive turn. They are open to negotiations if guaranteed against Turkish aggression. Without international assurances, leaders fear a return to chaos. As the conflict lingered, minor skirmishes between SDF and Turkish-aligned forces continue, with the humanitarian crisis worsening amid displacement and unrest in cities like Raqqa and Hassakeh.
The ongoing struggle for autonomy in north-eastern Syria underscores the complexities of balancing Kurdish independence aspirations and external threats, particularly from Turkey. The recent developments, including the PKK’s disarmament call, offer a glimmer of hope for conflict resolution. However, the SDF’s challenges include local discontent, potential Turkish intervention, and the overarching need for international support in safeguarding rights and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
