The interim Syrian government and the Kurdish-led SDF have signed a historic deal aiming for national reconciliation, amidst heightened violence and international scrutiny. The agreement seeks to integrate diverse communities, address security concerns, and revitalize Syria’s oil sector, which is crucial for reconstruction efforts. However, its success depends on resolving complex military and governance issues, as well as ensuring fair representation and rights for all groups involved.

In a significant development aimed at fostering unity within Syria, the interim government of the Syrian Arab Republic and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) signed a vital agreement on March 10. This deal’s implementation is uncertain, particularly following a controversial constitutional declaration which has raised questions about its efficacy.

The agreement seeks to integrate military and civilian institutions into the Syrian state, coinciding with President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s need for legitimacy amidst international criticism over violence against minority Alawites. According to analyst Nanar Hawach from the International Crisis Group, the deal has the potential to alter Syria’s post-war environment significantly due to the prevailing security concerns, including recent violence and foreign intervention.

Analyst Mutlu Civiroglu noted that the agreement enhances Al-Sharaa’s image as a leader committed to diversity within Syria. Notably, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi is acknowledged for his respect among various ethnic groups, enhancing the framework for reconciliation.

Kurdish groups, under the SDF and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, condemned recent violent acts against Alawite civilians, labeling them as part of a systematic campaign against minorities. Abdi urged Al-Sharaa to intervene to stop these assaults, highlighting the critical security situation in Latakia, where significant violence erupted earlier this month.

As reported, clashes in Latakia raised fatalities dramatically, with considerable reprisal actions against Alawite civilians. Rami Abdulrahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights emphasized that the presence of the SDF could provide a safe haven for Alawites fleeing violence. The agreement, targeted for completion by year-end, acknowledges the Kurdish community’s rights as indigenous citizens of Syria.

The deal calls for a halt to hostilities in SDF-controlled territories, which have been under threat from the Syrian National Army. Hawach affirmed that this accord grants Syrian Kurds recognition of rights previously denied under Assad’s rule, potentially facilitating economic cooperation between both sides.

Joshua Landis of the University of Oklahoma highlighted the significance of oil in this agreement, suggesting that it could generate revenue critical for Syria’s reconstruction. He observed that while the interim government will control the oil fields, Kurds will receive half of the revenues, thus benefiting both parties. Reviving Syria’s oil industry, severely impacted by conflict, is essential for funding reconstruction efforts projected to cost approximately $400 billion.

Hawach further noted that the deal might facilitate economic benefits and foster joint actions against extremist groups, marking a shift towards national reintegration following years of fragmentation. Although it gained approval from the UN and several nations including Saudi Arabia and France, its success is contingent upon how the parties resolve outstanding integration details.

Despite the agreement’s potential for granting some autonomy to northeastern Syria, critics assert that it lacks a substantive plan for implementation. Key military provisions pose challenges, with Kurds emphasizing the necessity of their own forces while still integrating into the Syrian Defense Ministry.

The temporary constitution signed by Al-Sharaa has drawn criticism from the SDF’s political wing for reinforcing authoritarianism and centralizing power. The Syrian Democratic Council has called for a complete reformulation of this declaration to ensure equitable governance and recognition of minority rights, asserting that any constitutional adjustments should emerge from a genuine national consensus.

The recent agreement between the Syrian interim government and the Kurdish-led SDF marks a notable attempt toward national reconciliation amidst ongoing violence and instability. While the deal holds promise for acknowledging Kurdish rights and integrating diverse communities into the Syrian state, its success is contingent upon addressing the unresolved practical aspects of reintegration and ensuring substantive governance reforms. The issues of military control and authority distribution must be carefully navigated to achieve a lasting peace in Syria after over a decade of conflict.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com

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