Navigating Turbulence: Northeast Syria’s SDF Amidst Political Shifts and Threats
Northeast Syria faces a complex political landscape following the fall of Assad. Commander Zanarin Kobani of the YPJ describes the strategic tunnels in Kobani, vital for evading threats. The SDF navigates tensions with Turkey and Turkish-backed forces while seeking stability and autonomy. Ocalan’s call for PKK disarmament has implications for local Kurdish governance, as the SDF strives for diplomatic solutions amidst ongoing threats.
In the tunnels beneath Kobani, Commander Zanarin Kobani of the YPJ, part of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), describes a concealed network developed over years to evade Turkey’s drone strikes. These tunnels lead to well-furnished living quarters, where she monitors the city for threats. The risk of detection by Turkish drones limits her movements as she has participated in key battles against ISIS but now faces a shifting threat from Turkey.
The Kurdish regions of northeast Syria, known as Rojava, are viewed by Turkey as a security threat, particularly due to the SDF’s strongest faction, YPG, which is linked to the PKK. Following a significant announcement by Abdullah Ocalan, urging the disarmament of the PKK, the implications for the Kurdish administration remain uncertain. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi noted that this call pertains solely to the PKK, not to the SDF’s situation in Syria.
Turkey’s military actions in northeast Syria have escalated, particularly after the Assad regime’s recent fall, allowing the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) to advance westward along the Euphrates. This ongoing conflict puts the semi-autonomous region in a precarious position, carefully negotiating its autonomy while guarding against external threats, particularly from Turkey and its allies.
Despite ongoing incursions, Commander Kobani remains resolute. She expresses deep concern for women’s rights under potential HTS and SNA governance but holds out hope for successful negotiations. “We need international guarantees that Turkey will stop attacking us. People here will not accept any occupation,” she asserts, emphasizing readiness to defend against potential aggression.
The SDF seeks diplomatic solutions to potential conflicts with Turkey, particularly considering a US troop withdrawal could alter the balance. The SDF has engaged with the new leadership in the area, showing willingness to cooperate without compromising their military position. Cooperation includes resuming oil supplies to the central government and recognizing the new Syrian flag.
While the Kurds celebrated the regime’s downfall by renaming significant locales, tensions persist over future governance structures. Mr. Al Shara insists on a unified national army, which could challenge the SDF’s autonomy. The Kurdish leadership has been cautious and has criticized their exclusion from discussions regarding the new political landscape in Syria.
Although there are signs of potential camaraderie between SDF and local Arab factions, they face persistent dissatisfaction among some local communities. As the region continues to grapple with disillusionment and issues of governance, it is clear that stability remains the top priority. Even amid the chaos, “as long as our rights and our Kurdish identity are guaranteed, we don’t care which government rules us,” states Sobhi Hassan, reflecting the sentiments of many displaced individuals seeking peace.
The evolving political landscape in northeast Syria presents both challenges and opportunities for the Kurdish-led SDF following the fall of the Assad regime. The implications of Abdullah Ocalan’s call for PKK disarmament could reshape dynamics with Turkey, while local negotiations with SNA and HTS raise concerns about autonomy and the preservation of rights. Amidst the backdrop of ongoing military threats and the need for security, the region’s inhabitants prioritize peace and stability.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
