Northeast Syria’s Struggles: Balancing Between Turkish Threats and Kurdish Aspirations

This article examines the precarious situation in north-eastern Syria post-Assad regime, as Kurdish-led forces navigate threats from Turkey and internal challenges. Commander Zanarin Kobani emphasizes the need for international guarantees and peace negotiations amidst ongoing military tensions, while the PKK’s call for disarmament may signal potential changes in the conflict dynamics.

In Kobani, the commander of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), Commander Zanarin Kobani, is familiar with the extensive underground tunnels created by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to evade Turkish strikes. These tunnels house a functional living space equipped with essential amenities. The area is monitored closely for security reasons, as Commander Kobani must navigate carefully to avoid detection due to ongoing drone threats.

Having participated in numerous battles against ISIS, Commander Kobani emphasizes the shift in threats since 2019. Previously focused on the ISIS menace, the SDF now contends with Turkey’s military aggression. The country views the SDF, particularly its most robust faction, the YPG, as a security threat due to its connections with the PKK, considered a terrorist group by Turkey, the US, and other nations.

Abdullah Ocalan’s recent announcement urging the disbandment of the PKK may help to alleviate some tensions with Turkey, although its effects on the Kurdish-led administration in Syria are uncertain. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi acknowledged the significance of this announcement, distinguishing it as relevant only to the PKK and not to their operations in Syria.

Turkey has aggressively pursued military campaigns in northern Syria, including a recent offensive coinciding with the fall of the Assad regime. The Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) capitalized on the regime’s collapse to seize territory along the Syria-Turkey border. This semi-autonomous northeastern region is now engaging in complex negotiations for stability while maintaining its rights amid these vulnerabilities.

Despite the incursions by Turkish-backed factions, Commander Kobani remains resolute and expresses concern regarding the potential threats to women’s rights under groups like HTS and SNA. She calls for international assurances against Turkish aggression, asserting that the local population will reject any form of occupation.

The SDF aims to explore diplomatic resolutions before resorting to direct military engagement in what would likely be a disadvantageous confrontation with Turkey. They have shown willingness for dialogue with the new HTS-led administration, even recognizing the Syrian revolution flag and resuming oil supplies to the Damascus government.

Kurds have openly celebrated the fall of the Assad regime, renaming public spaces and removing symbols of the former dictatorship. Despite these triumphs, the SDF faces significant challenges, particularly in navigating relationships with local Arab populations who express dissatisfaction with their governance.

Tensions have erupted in cities like Raqqa amidst celebrations, reflecting the fragility of peace. Additionally, the PKK’s intention to lay down arms could signal a shift towards resolving the longstanding conflict with Turkey, which SDF officials view optimistically, pending international assurances against future conflicts with Turkey.

Despite ongoing challenges and renewed threats, stability remains the utmost priority for residents affected by the violence. Many displaced individuals seek a return to their homes, with a desire for peace overshadowing political affiliations; they wish for guarantees of their rights and identity under any ruling authority.

The situation in northeast Syria remains precarious as it grapples with shifting threats and political complexities post-Assad. Commander Zanarin Kobani’s narrative highlights the ongoing vigilance against Turkish military actions while seeking peace through negotiations. The recent developments regarding the PKK’s disarmament offer a glimmer of hope for reduced tensions, yet the region’s stability is contingent upon international support and careful diplomacy amid a backdrop of persistent challenges.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com