
Toward a Greater Syria: Turkey’s Influence and the Path to Stability
In a landmark development, the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have reached a comprehensive agreement to unify their military and administrative structures, aiming to stabilize the nation after years of conflict.
Key Components of the Agreement:
• Military Integration and Ceasefire: The SDF, comprising over 60,000 fighters and previously supported by the U.S. in operations against ISIS, will be integrated into the Syrian national army. This move accompanies a nationwide ceasefire, significantly reducing internal hostilities and aiming to consolidate security forces under a unified command.
• Administrative Consolidation: The agreement brings the northeastern region, rich in oil resources and formerly under autonomous Kurdish administration, back under central government control. This includes oversight of border crossings, airports, oil fields, and detention facilities holding suspected ISIS members.
• Recognition of Kurdish Rights: For the first time, Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights are acknowledged constitutionally. Provisions allow for the teaching of the Kurdish language in schools, the return of displaced Kurds to their homes, and the granting of citizenship to those previously stateless.
Turkey’s Position:
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has expressed support for Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s efforts to stabilize the country. This backing is significant, considering Turkey’s longstanding concerns over Kurdish autonomy near its borders and its previous confrontations with Kurdish militias. Erdoğan emphasized the importance of Syria’s territorial integrity and the inclusive policies pursued by al-Sharaa.
Implications for Regional Stability:
The integration of Kurdish forces into the Syrian army is expected to ease tensions not only within Syria but also with neighboring countries, particularly Turkey. The disarmament call by Abdullah Öcalan, the jailed leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), further complements these efforts, signaling a potential end to decades of conflict and fostering improved relations between Turkey and Kurdish groups.
This agreement marks a pivotal step toward unifying Syria’s diverse factions under a central authority, addressing longstanding ethnic grievances, and enhancing regional security dynamics.