U.S. Endorses Syria-Kurd Deal for Non-Sectarian Governance and Integration

The United States endorses Syria’s agreement to integrate Kurdish-led SDF into state institutions, promoting non-sectarian governance. The deal includes resource sharing and a ceasefire, reflecting significant political progress. Concerns regarding recent violence against minorities have been raised, highlighting ongoing challenges within the region.

The United States has endorsed Syria’s agreement to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into state institutions. This endorsement follows the announcement by the Syrian presidency and the SDF regarding a deal that grants the Syrian central government control over a semi-autonomous region governed by the SDF since 2015.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, “The United States reaffirms its support for a political transition that demonstrates credible, non-sectarian governance as the best path to avoid further conflict.” He also expressed concern regarding recent violence against minorities and stated that the U.S. would monitor the actions of the interim authorities closely.

The agreement was announced by Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, focusing on the merger of civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into the national administration, which includes vital resources such as airports and oil fields. This development is seen as a pivotal moment in Syria’s political landscape.

The accord also incorporates a ceasefire across Syria, SDF assistance against pro-Assad forces, and recognition of the Kurdish population’s rights within the Syrian state. Despite ongoing talks for integration between the SDF and the Syrian government after the fall of Assad, challenges persisted due to differing commitments among opposition factions.

The U.S. military partnered with the SDF in combating the ISIL (ISIS) forces, whose territorial control in Syria ended in 2019. However, this alliance has created tension with Turkey, which categorizes the SDF as a manifestation of the Kurdish Workers’ Party, deemed a terrorist organization by Ankara.

The recent agreement between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF marks a significant political development in Syria. The U.S. supports this integration, emphasizing the need for non-sectarian governance and the protection of minority rights. This deal addresses critical issues in the region and seeks to stabilize the political landscape of Syria amidst ongoing challenges and violence.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com