DAMASCUS, SYRIA – In a historic move, the United States has played a crucial role in encouraging its Syrian Kurdish allies to reach a landmark deal with the Islamist-led government in Damascus. This agreement, which was signed on Monday, aims to bring an end to the conflict in northern Syria and pave the way for stability and unity in the war-torn country.
The deal, which was brokered by U.S. officials, brings together two sides that have been at odds for the past 14 years. The Kurdish-led forces, who hold a quarter of Syria, will merge with Damascus and regional Kurdish governing bodies, in an effort to stitch back together a country that has been fractured by war. While key details of the agreement have yet to be finalized, this is a significant step towards rebuilding Syria and finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
General Mazloum Abdi, head of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), was flown to Damascus on a U.S. military aircraft for the signing of the agreement with interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. This is a clear indication of the United States’ commitment to bringing stability to the region and working towards a unified Syria.
The United States has been deeply involved in Syria’s Kurdish groups since deploying forces to the country a decade ago to combat the Islamic State. Despite objections from Turkey, the U.S. has maintained a strong partnership with Kurdish fighters. This has come into renewed focus since President Donald Trump returned to power, with the Pentagon already developing plans for a potential withdrawal of U.S. forces from Syria.
However, with this recent agreement, it is clear that the U.S. is committed to finding a peaceful resolution and ensuring a smooth transition of power. The U.S. has recognized that a negotiated handover of territory to the Syrian government is the best way to avoid conflict between the Kurdish-led forces and the new government in Damascus, as well as prevent a Turkish attack across the border.
The U.S. military has declined to comment on the details of the deal, including any role it may have played in encouraging talks or providing transportation for General Abdi to reach Damascus. However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has welcomed the agreement, emphasizing Washington’s support for a united and stable Syria.
Erdem Ozan, a former Turkish diplomat and expert on Syria, believes that this agreement benefits both sides. He states, “Sharaa gains political breathing room after recent unrest in the coastal area, and the SDF avoids a direct clash with Turkey at a time when U.S. policy on Syria remains uncertain.”
While the deal marks a significant step towards peace in Syria, there are still details to be worked out, including how the SDF will be merged with Syria’s armed forces. The SDF has previously stated that they must join as a bloc, while Damascus wants them to join as individuals. This issue, along with others, will be addressed by committees in the coming weeks.
The real test will be in the execution of this agreement. However, with both sides showing a willingness to work together and find a peaceful resolution, there is hope that this deal will bring an end to the years of conflict and division in Syria.
This agreement also comes at a potentially historic moment for the Kurds, following a call by the jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan for his group to disarm. While the SDF is heavily influenced by Ocalan, they have stated that this call does not apply to them. This shows the SDF’s commitment to finding a peaceful solution and working towards a new Syria.
Aaron Zelin, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, believes that this deal is in the best interest of the United States. He states, “It helps unify the country, which is in the interest of the U.S. since it wants stability and not internal power fights.”
As the details of this agreement continue to be worked out, it is important to recognize the positive impact it will have on the region. It is a significant step towards a united and stable Syria and shows that with dedication and cooperation, peace can be achieved. The United States’ role in encouraging this deal is a testament to their commitment to bringing stability to the region and finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. This is a pivotal moment for Syria and its people, and the international community must continue to support efforts towards peace and unity.
