RIHA – Journalist Delil Zilan, commenting on the formation of a new Syrian army based on the model of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), stated, “A verbal agreement was reached that is accepted by U.S. and French forces, as well as by both the SDF and the provisional Damascus government.”

 

Negotiations that began with the March 10 Agreement between the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES) and the Provisional Damascus Government have entered a new phase. Following the November 10 meeting in Washington between U.S. President Donald Trump and Provisional Government President Ahmed El Shara, the Provisional Government announced progress on integrating the SDF into the Syrian army and advancing a “security agreement” between Syria and Israel.

 

SDF General Commander Mazloum Abdi also noted that he spoke with U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack regarding the meeting, emphasizing that Syria’s participation in the global coalition against ISIS is an important step in eliminating regional threats and strengthening joint efforts. Abdi said: “We are working closely with our partners to advance toward a more prosperous and secure future for our people in a unified Syria.”

 

SHARA-ABDI MEETING

 

Zilan said: “In the final stage, there were multiple discussions between the Autonomous Administration and the Damascus delegation, but these were mostly verbal agreements outside the March 10 Agreement. The day before traveling to the U.S., Colani met with Mazloum Abdi for a preparatory visit. Ilham Ahmed, Mazloum Abdi, and some officials from the Autonomous Administration were also present. Discussions focused on security in the Autonomous Administration areas and across Syria. Given 14 years of war-related devastation, military and security matters were prioritized. The Autonomous Administration, the Damascus delegation, the U.S., coalition forces, France, and the U.K. as an observer worked on a military framework. This framework outlines the SDF’s role in the new Syrian army and how the army can address Syria’s security issues. An agreement was reached that the SDF model could effectively resolve national security challenges, a model accepted by both the U.S. and French forces as well as the SDF and provisional government.”

 

‘SDF WILL MAINTAIN ITS POSITION’

 

Regarding the discussions, Zilan noted: “During the Colani-Abdi meeting, troop numbers were raised. Abdi stated they have 100 thousand personnel, while Colani mentioned 30 thousand. In reality, Syria currently has no standing army. The new army will adopt the SDF military model, which is recognized by coalition forces. The existing SDF divisions will retain their positions within the Autonomous Administration territories. The Provisional Government’s participation in the anti-ISIS coalition has become clearer. The SDF has professional units, such as HAT and YAT anti-terror forces, which will be present across Syria. Integration with the Syrian army is planned, but exact placement within the army is yet to be defined. This approach was proposed by the Damascus government: the current SDF structure remains in place while preparing for a unified Syrian army.”

 

ALAWITES AND DRUZE: SDF PRESENCE GUARANTEES SECURITY

 

Zilan highlighted that discussions also addressed the situation of populations in other parts of Syria. “The Autonomous Administration’s roadmap is not limited to bringing democracy or security to a single region. According to both Mazlum Abdi and Ilham Ahmed, the integration plan sparked optimism in coastal areas, the Druze city of Sweida, and other regions. Locals view the SDF’s involvement as a guarantee for their safety. Over the past 11 months, HTS carried out multiple attacks, including massacres of Alawites in coastal areas. The SDF’s integration into the new Syrian army is crucial for broader security. Negotiations covered military integration, education, health, administrative structures, and constitutional reforms.” Zilan emphasized that nearly all key issues were discussed during the talks.

 

‘TURKEY IS TRYING TO OBSTRUCT’

 

Zilan noted obstacles, particularly Turkey: “Turkey is actively trying to prevent the Kurds from gaining any status or achievements, using attacks, proxy groups like the SNA, and diplomatic measures. Despite these efforts, Turkey’s influence in Syria is waning, and it must now accept the current reality.”

 

‘YPJ WILL NOT BE A POINT OF DEBATE’

 

On the YPJ’s position, Zilan said: “The YPG, YPJ, and SDF components will remain as they are. The YPJ’s role is not negotiable; wherever the SDF operates, the YPJ will also be present. This is part of the established Rojava system and will be integrated into the new army model.”

 

‘SDF’S SCOPE WILL EXPAND’

 

Regarding Syria’s evolving structure, Zilan stated: “The Autonomous Administration is emerging as a key force capable of stabilizing Syria. The Provisional Government’s participation in the international coalition lacks a practical presence on the ground. The fight against ISIS will be led by the SDF. Its operational scope will extend beyond North and East Syria to cover the entire country.”

 

MA / Melik Varol