Damascus – Syrian authorities are reportedly in discussions with Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), regarding the integration of SDF fighters into the ranks of the national army. The talks follow the expiration of a deadline for implementing an agreement signed by both parties months ago.
According to sources, Damascus presented a written proposal to the SDF outlining the integration process. The proposal reportedly suggests dividing the SDF forces into three divisions and several brigades, including a women’s brigade. These units would then be deployed in SDF-controlled areas of northeastern Syria, managed by their own commanders.
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani announced on December 22nd that Damascus had received a response from the SDF regarding the Defense Ministry’s proposal. However, the Syrian government accuses the SDF of stalling the agreement’s implementation and instigating clashes, including shelling residential buildings and hospitals, resulting in casualties, most recently in Aleppo last month.
The original agreement, signed in March 2025, by Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara and Abdi, stipulated the integration of the SDF’s civil and military institutions into national institutions by the end of the year. The SDF is supported by Washington.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, during a visit to Damascus two weeks ago, urged the SDF not to become an obstacle to Syria’s territorial integrity and stability. Ankara, which supported Syrian factions in regaining territory controlled by the SDF between 2016 and 2019, has warned that the SDF’s partners are losing patience.
The SDF controls vast areas in northern and eastern Syria, including key oil and gas fields. They received support from Washington in the fight against the Islamic State group in 2019. Following the Syrian revolution’s ousting of the Bashar al-Assad regime, Syrian factions dissolved themselves and joined the national army and armed forces. However, the Kurdish-led SDF insists on a decentralized system of governance that would allow them to maintain influence in the areas they control.
