On March 10, 2025, pivotal developments unfolded in Syria as the newly-formed transitional government signed a historic agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (QSD), led by commander Mazloum Abdi. The agreement focuses on seamlessly integrating Kurdish institutions within the overarching framework of the Syrian state. This event is seen by many as a step away from the violence and chaos post-civil war, aiming to facilitate political representation and improve the management of key resources.
The agreement contains eight primary clauses, which include the return of governmental entities to northeastern Syria, the management of border crossings with Iraq and Turkey, and the restoration of rights for all Syrian citizens irrespective of their ethnic background. Dr. Hamza Al-Muhaimeed, Secretary-General of the Deir Ezzor Governorate Council, articulated cautious optimism, stating, "This agreement is seemingly good and calming because it prevents bloodshed without dragging the country back to violence." Yet, Arab tribes, particularly those from resource-rich eastern regions, remain skeptical. They worry about historical grievances due to QSD's previous exploitation of agricultural lands and oil resources.
Notably, the political atmosphere surrounding the agreement is rife with complexity. According to Alhurra, the terms of this new alliance were solidified after multiple discussions, culminating in this 10-clause framework intended to realize the aspirations of the people of Suweida, derived from the Druze community, who demand more responsive governance from the Syrian state. The signing between Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri, the prominent Druze leader, and representatives of the Syrian administration potentially marks the first public step toward reconciliation, particularly significant at this political junction.
Although local media indicated this was the first agreement publicly linking the Druze leadership to the Syrian government, experts caution against viewing it as comprehensive. Rian Marouf from the Suweida 24 network pointed out, "This agreement does not signify absolute reconciliation but rather affords room for negotiation directly related to pressing local demands." Meanwhile, other factions are also expressing cautious support as both Kurdish and Syrian leaders maneuver through the complicated terrain of internal politics.
Among the agreement's explicit commitments is the transition to political stability where both communities — Kurdish and Arab — can coexist and thrive together within Syria. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring protection for displaced persons and facilitating their return to their homes. The plan is seen not only as politically strategic but also as necessary from humanitarian perspectives to avert any potential resurgence of conflicts.
On the other hand, the U.S. Department of Defense is reportedly gauging options to withdraw American troops from Syria, injecting uncertainty toward the future of such agreements. Pentagon officials suggested this could affect the balance of power and stability previously maintained by the U.S.-backed QSD. The complex entanglement of U.S. military presence with the Syrian conflict adds layers of intricacy as local players recalibrate their strategies.
While both parties have expressed hope for the agreement to act as guiding light toward forging peace, lack of clarity surrounding the execution remains. The need to form joint committees to oversee the operationalization of this agreement throws additional obstacles as local leadership seeks to negotiate the terms of integration from their perspectives.
Subsequently, the agreement is expected to prompt various responses across Syria’s fractured political spectrum. While Kurdish representatives have positioned the deal as foundational for future peace efforts, many remain apprehensive about actual implementation amid the backdrop of deep-seated mistrust.
Achieving peace and stability within Syria's diverse communities will not come without challenges. The roadmap outlined by this agreement requires not just political will, but genuine collaboration at ground levels and trust-building measures across ethnic divides.
Indeed, the future of the agreement hinges on both the commitment of the involved parties to uphold the mandates it set forth and their ability to address the historical grievances clouding their coexistence. With socio-political objectives laid out clearly, stakeholders must prioritize maintaining the fragile fabric sustaining the delineation of ethnic entities within the region. This integration agreement's success will be intrinsically linked with the willingness of leaders and communities alike to find common ground.
On establishing immediate priorities, QSD leader Mazloum Abdi emphasized via social media, "We are committed to working together to guarantee the transitional phase reflects the aspirations of our nation for justice and stability." This intention is encapsulated within their commitment to disarmament of entrenched hostilities, paving the way toward more equitable governance.
Finally, with binding resolutions set to be assessed by the end of this year, local leaders have their work cut out for them. They will have to rally their communities to play their part and navigate the tumultuous waters of Syrian political life, balancing traditional barriers with modern demands for decentralization and inclusivity.