Syrian Kurds Embrace National Unity: A New Chapter in Post-Assad Syria

 Syrian Kurds Embrace National Unity: A New Chapter in Post-Assad Syria

By Tahir Ali Shah – Published: May 28, 2025

   The Kurdish people are an ethnic group with a long history in the Middle East. Their ancestral roots are believed to lie in the northern Zagros Mountains region, encompassing parts of present-day Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. The name "Kurd" can be traced back to at least the time of the Islamic conquests in the 7th century CE, possibly earlier, where it was used to describe various nomadic groups in the region. Throughout history, Kurdish groups have played diverse roles, with periods of independence in the form of principalities and dynasties, such as the Ayyubids in the 12th and 13th centuries. Despite these periods of regional influence, the Kurds have largely remained a stateless nation in the modern era, with their traditional lands divided by international borders following World War I. Their aspirations for greater autonomy or independence have been a recurring theme in the region's history, often leading to complex and sometimes conflictual relationships with the central governments of the states they inhabit.

    Syrian Kurds have recently shifted their political strategy to favor national unity over regional autonomy in the post-Assad era in Syria. Following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, the integration of Syria's diverse communities, particularly the Kurdish population in the northeast, has become critical for the nation’s future. A significant step in this direction occurred on March 10, 2025, with the signing of a landmark agreement in Damascus between Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander Mazloum Abdi.

    This agreement outlines the integration of the Kurdish-led SDF into Syria’s national military and administrative structures. Key provisions of the accord include the full integration of SDF forces into the Syrian Arab Army and the transfer of control over all civilian and military institutions in the northeast to the Syrian administration. The agreement also encompasses the recognition of Kurdish cultural and linguistic rights and a commitment to a nationwide ceasefire and political inclusivity. This marks a notable change from previous Kurdish aspirations for autonomy, indicating a willingness to engage in a unified Syrian state and reflecting a pragmatic approach by the SDF to secure Kurdish interests within the framework of national unity.

    Several factors have influenced the Kurdish leadership’s decision to pursue integration. Security concerns have been paramount, especially with the withdrawal of U.S. troops and the ongoing threat of Turkish military operations. Engaging with the central government is perceived as a potential means to strengthen their security against external threats. Furthermore, the transitional government’s commitment to inclusivity has provided the Kurds with an opportunity to actively participate in shaping Syria’s future political landscape. Economic stability is another significant factor, as integration into the national framework could facilitate economic recovery in Kurdish regions through access to state resources and international aid.

    The Kurdish decision to integrate has been met with varied reactions in neighboring Kurdish regions. The semi-autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in Iraq has expressed cautious optimism, supporting Kurdish rights while emphasizing the importance of regional stability. In contrast, Turkey, which has historically opposed Kurdish autonomy, has shown a cautious response to the agreement. While initially viewing the dissolution of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and the SDF’s integration positively, Turkey has also warned against any plans that undermine the central government in Syria or threaten its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Iran, while wary of Kurdish movements that could inspire separatism within its borders, has not publicly opposed the Syrian Kurds’ integration, possibly seeing it as a way to maintain regional equilibrium.

    Despite the promising nature of the agreement, several challenges remain. A significant trust deficit exists due to years of conflict between Kurdish authorities and central governments, and implementing the agreement is a considerable hurdle. Internal divisions among Kurdish political factions could also complicate their unified engagement with the central government. Moreover, ambiguities in the interim constitution, which lacks explicit recognition for minority groups, including Kurds, have led to protests and demands for clearer guarantees of rights and representation.

    In conclusion, the integration of Syrian Kurds into the national framework represents a substantial step toward national reconciliation and rebuilding in Syria. While challenges such as trust deficits, internal divisions, and constitutional ambiguities persist, the commitment to inclusivity, recognition of minority rights, and efforts toward political stability offer a foundation for a more unified Syria. The ongoing success of this transition will depend on continued dialogue, the cultivation of mutual trust, and sustained international support in navigating the complexities involved.

References:

1. The Kurds’ Gamble for Survival in The New Syria, Special Eurasia, March 17, 2025, link.
2. A Seismic Shift: Toward the Integration of the SDF in Syrian Institutions, Al Jazeera, March 20, 2025, link.
3. The Kurdish Issue in Syria and the Future of Turkey’s Role in the Levant, Armenian Weekly, March 19, 2025, link.
4. The Illusion of Kurdish Unity, Middle East Forum, April 30, 2025, link.
5. Turkey Warns Against Kurdish Autonomy Plans, Reaffirms Support for Unified Syria, Al Arabiya English, May 1, 2025, link.