Syrian Democratic Forces commander lands in Damascus for national unification talks - report
The SDF was the key force that helped defeat ISIS. It was backed by the US. Now it is integrating into the new Syrian security forces.
Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander Mazloum Abdi visited Damascus on August 25 for crucial talks aimed at national unification. The US recently lifted sanctions on Syria and Israeli officials met with Syrian counterparts in Amman. The SDF, key in defeating ISIS, is now integrating into the Syrian security forces. This meeting symbolizes the successful integration and unification process in Syria.
SDF-controlled areas had raised fears among Kurds about integration, with some concerned the US would abandon SDF isolation. However, Damascus leadership mainly consists of conservative Islamic and right-leaning Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, while SDF leadership is far-left and rooted in the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). Both groups have ideological differences, but they must work together post-war.
Abdi discussed education as the main issue during the talks, which came 20 days after a previous meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Abdi stated that the phase of integrating military, security, and administrative institutions into national state institutions is complete, and now they will begin a new phase. Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani mentioned unresolved issues, including the integration of Women's Protection Units and Kurdish-language education.
Abdi emphasized Kurdish education's priority in talks with Damascus, arguing that Kurdish should remain the main language of instruction.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
