In a landmark move to unify Syria after over a decade of conflict, the Syrian interim government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced an agreement to merge civil and military institutions in the northeast under state control. The deal, confirmed by state media SANA on Monday, aims to integrate key sectors such as border crossings, airports, and oil-rich areas, marking a critical step toward national cohesion.
The agreement, finalized during talks between Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi in Damascus, includes provisions for recognizing the Kurdish community as an integral part of Syria, a nationwide ceasefire, and protections for displaced Syrians returning home. Official photos showed the leaders shaking hands, signaling a rare moment of collaboration between historically divided factions.
While the deal outlines plans to transfer SDF-controlled institutions to state oversight by year-end, questions remain about integrating the SDF's military operations into Syria's defense ministry—a point left unresolved. Analysts suggest this could test the pact’s long-term viability amid ongoing tensions.
Abdi hailed the accord as a "real opportunity to build a new Syria" in a social media post, emphasizing efforts to reflect public aspirations for justice and stability. The announcement comes as al-Sharaa confronts escalating violence against the Alawite minority in western Syria, which he warned could destabilize unification efforts.
No immediate reaction was reported from Türkiye, a key Syrian ally, leaving regional observers to speculate on potential geopolitical ripple effects. With inputs from Xinhua and Reuters, the development highlights Syria’s fragile path toward rebuilding its fractured institutions.
