Impact of the Syria-SDF Agreement on Iraq’s Security and Politics

A peace agreement between Syria’s transitional government and the Kurdish-led SDF aims to establish stability and equality. Iraqi Kurdish leaders support the deal, anticipating positive regional effects, while some analysts voice skepticism regarding its implementation. The future success of this agreement is vital for Syria’s peace trajectory amid existing geopolitical tensions.

A historic peace agreement was recently signed in Damascus between Syria’s transitional government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), instilling cautious optimism among Kurdish leaders in Iraq. This agreement seeks to instate stability, unity, and democratic reforms in a nation ravaged by years of conflict. Negotiations concluded on a Monday evening, with Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Syria’s interim president, and SDF Commander Mazlum Abdi finalizing the terms.

The agreement stipulates that all citizens will have equal political opportunities, with appointments in state institutions based on merit rather than ethnic identity. The Kurdish community, often marginalized in Syria, is recognized as essential to the state, thus granting them full citizenship rights and constitutional protections. Additionally, it calls for a nationwide ceasefire and the integration of all civil and military operations in northeastern Syria under central government control, including crucial infrastructure and resources.

Iraqi Kurdish leaders have expressed widespread support for the agreement, anticipating a positive impact on regional stability, while the Iraqi government remains silent on the matter. Fethullah Husseini, representing the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), noted that the deal could lead to stability in Iraq and emphasized that the acknowledgment of Kurdish rights is a significant victory across the region. Pavel Jalal Talabani, President of the ruling Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), labeled the agreement a positive step towards peaceful coexistence.

However, some analysts are skeptical about the agreement’s feasibility. Kamaran Mantik, a political professor, remarked that the foundational aspects of the agreement are inadequate for successful implementation. He speculated that the Syrian government may utilize this agreement as a tactical maneuver to alleviate international scrutiny, particularly following recent unrest. Mantik highlighted the complex geopolitical rivalries at play, which significantly complicate Syria’s future.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for the agreement on social media, underscoring the commitment to credible, non-sectarian governance in avoiding future conflict. Conversely, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged for the full enforcement of the agreement. Meanwhile, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham gained control over Damascus after a recent offensive, indicating ongoing instability. As Syria stands on the precipice of change, the eventual success or failure of this agreement will greatly influence the pursuit of lasting peace or the persistence of deep-seated divisions.

In summary, the recently signed agreement between Syria’s interim government and the SDF aims to foster stability, democratic reform, and equality among citizens. While Iraqi Kurdish leaders express optimism regarding potential regional impacts, the Iraqi government has yet to offer a formal stance on the matter. Nevertheless, political analysts highlight significant doubts regarding the agreement’s feasibility, primarily due to existing geopolitical tensions and historical divisions in Syria. Hence, the future of this agreement is critical in determining Syria’s path toward peace or ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.newarab.com