In a significant political development for Syria, an agreement was reached on March 10, 2025, between the new interim Syrian administration and the Syrian Democratic Forces (QSD) led by Ahmad al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi. This eight-point agreement, designed to integrate QSD’s self-administration in northeastern Syria into the central governance structures of Syria, marks a major step towards political reconciliation and stability in the war-torn nation.
The announcement about this agreement came just days before a proposed constitutional declaration on March 13, further underscoring its importance amid ongoing tensions within various Syrian communities, particularly among Kurdish, Druze, and Alawite populations, who expressed reservations about the new government’s direction. The implementation of this agreement is seen as essential not only for domestic peace but also for addressing criticisms of the new authority's centralized power and its ongoing conflicts with external powers, notably Turkey and Israel.
The agreement outlines crucial commitments, including the representation of all Syrians in political processes and state institutions without discrimination based on religion or ethnicity, highlighting a comprehensive approach to national unity. As stated in the agreement, “This initiative represents a roadmap essential for the future of Syria, aiming for an inclusive nation-state where every group is offered a fair voice.” This quote, attributed to a spokesperson of the new government, reflects a commitment to prioritizing national rather than sectarian interests.
Among its critical provisions, the agreement seeks to halt ongoing violence across Syria, calling for a ceasefire, and includes mechanisms for integrating all administrative and military institutions of the QSD into the new Syrian state framework. The article noted that this integration means managing all border crossings, airports, and resource fields—including oil and gas operations—under national control. The agreement stipulates that Kurdish rights are protected and shall not diminish existing protections under the new constitution.
As the agreement unfolds, key discussions are expected to address the status of displaced Syrians, with guarantees for their return to their homes now featuring prominently in the conversation. Additionally, the government is mandated to support efforts to secure the nation against remnants of previous regimes and other threats. “Our duty is to restore safety and stability to every corner of our homeland,” remarked Ahmad al-Sharaa during the signing ceremony, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to establishing security across the board.
Furthermore, both parties aim to reject any forms of division and hate speech aimed at fracturing Syrian society. The Syrian Democratic Forces have long demanded autonomy that recognizes their cultural and linguistic rights. This therefore raises concerns, expressed by analysts, about whether the new constitutional framework will indeed address these issues adequately without sparking further disputes among other ethnic groups, particularly the Druze and Alawite communities, who are also pushing for their own rights.
The coming months will be pivotal as joint committees are set up to find common ground on the specifics of each article of the agreement, but skepticism about the agreement's viability remains. Critics say the current political climate, characterized by deep-seated mistrust and historical grievances, may impede the successful integration of QSD forces into the Syrian military framework.
The complexities of this agreement are compounded by international dynamics, with Turkey keeping a close watch and asserting that any negotiations should not empower Kurdish militias in Syria, as underscored by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s statement that “We do not believe there will ever be concessions in Syria regarding autonomy or self-governance efforts.” The Turkish stance further complicates the Syrian administration’s efforts to stabilize the region.
Analysts suggest that the agreements also serve as a response to the humanitarian plight of many Syrians who have experienced years of displacement and conflict. Nevertheless, achieving a balance of interests between the different ethnic groups involved is crucial, as tensions remain rife both locally and in the border regions.
As various factions start discussing the terms outlined in the agreement, observers warn that the absence of clear prioritization may lead to failed negotiations, especially over contentious points such as resource sharing and representation in state structures. The ambiguity underlying the key articles may invite varying interpretations that could derail the implementation process.
Speaking on the matter, QSD leader Mazloum Abdi noted, “While we agree on overarching principles like the integrity of Syrian territory and the need for a unified military structure, many details regarding logistics, timelines, and practical issues still need resolution.” The need for comprehensive dialogue on these outstanding issues underscores the precarious nature of the current political framework.
With multiple stakeholders involved, ranging from national powers to local authorities, the formation of this agreement signifies not only a potential pathway to peace but also a test of Syria's political fabric. It remains to be seen if this will truly lay the groundwork for a lasting resolution or simply serve as another temporary band-aid for a deeply fractured nation.
As discussions continue, it is clear that any progress will rely heavily on the cooperation between all segments of Syrian society as they navigate the complexities of this new reality.
