The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) rejected U.S. Ambassador to Ankara and special envoy for Syria Tom Barrack’s demands to withdraw from Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, Hasakah, and Tabqa and surrender weapons, stating they plan to integrate gradually into the Syrian army rather than disarm.
SDF spokesperson Sihanouk Dibo said they would not accept the transfer of control over natural resources and border crossings to Damascus, but maintained there is “no disagreement” with Washington. He added that the SDF would welcome parliamentary elections if a political deal is reached.
SDF commander Mazlum Abdi met tribal leaders and local figures in Deir ez-Zor, discussing political, security, and economic developments. Abdi emphasized the need for unity and signaled readiness to consider transferring state institutions, including military components, to Damascus under future agreements.
Ilham Ahmed, co-chair of the Autonomous Administration’s foreign relations, stressed that talks with Damascus aim for a decentralized Syria where local governance is strengthened while key state functions remain centralized. She confirmed indirect and open channels with Turkey and praised Northern Iraqi leader Nechirvan Barzani’s mediation role.
SDF WANTS CONSTITUTIONAL GUARANTEES
SDF Commander Abdi also said that the SDF is positive about integrating into the Syrian army, but is concerned about doing so without constitutional guarantees.
In a joint interview with the El Hadath and El Arabiya channels, Abdi said that communication with the Turkish and Syrian governments is open at all times.
Explaining that an agreement had been reached between the SDF and Damascus on the unity of Syria under a single army and a single flag, Abdi said: “We defend the slogan: One Army, One Government, One State,” echoing U.S. envoy Barrack’s previous remarks.
Saudi Arabia may be helpful as a mediator, Abdi added, highlighting Riyadh's involvement in removing sanctions against Damascus. Abdi said Turkey was not involved in the negotiation.
ABDİ INSTEAD OF ÖCALAN
Abdulkadir Selvi, a columnist for Hürriyet known for his proximity to the government, stated that Abdullah Öcalan was uncomfortable with the SDF-PKK-YPG's relations with Israel in Syria.
“Israel is using Mazlum Abdi to thwart the PKK's disarmament,” he said.
Noting that Abdi has been taking orders from Israel for some time, Selvi said that Israel is trying to replace Öcalan with Abdi and wants to ignite a leadership struggle within the PKK.
