In northeast Syria, the SDF, led by Commander Zanarin Kobani, navigates a precarious landscape following the Assad regime’s collapse. While they face threats from Turkey and ISIS resurgence, diplomatic gestures towards the HTS-led government and the PKK’s disarmament offer avenues for potential peace. Yet, underlying tensions and humanitarian crises persist, with local populations yearning for security and stability amid ongoing conflicts.
Commander Zanarin Kobani of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), associated with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), plays a crucial role in the semi-autonomous region of northern Syria. She emphasized the intricate network of underground tunnels in Kobani, developed to evade Turkish drone strikes. Within these tunnels, the SDF maintains a secure headquarters equipped with amenities for coordination and surveillance amidst ongoing threats from Turkey.
After years of battling ISIS, the focus has now shifted primarily to Turkey, which views the Kurdish region, known as Rojava, as a security threat due to its associations with the PKK, a group deemed terrorist by several nations. Recent calls for disarmament from PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan could potentially ease tensions, though the implications for the SDF’s operations remain uncertain. SDF leadership has welcomed these calls while clarifying that they pertain to the PKK and not to the SDF.
Turkey and its allied groups have conducted numerous military operations in northeast Syria, particularly following the Assad regime’s downfall in December. The Syrian National Army (SNA), allied with Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), has gained ground in the region, further complicating the SDF’s stance, which seeks to protect its interests while navigating new governmental dynamics post-Assad.
In anticipation of possible Turkish incursions, Commander Kobani expresses her deep concern for women’s rights under potential HTS and SNA rule. She urges for international guarantees to halt Turkish aggression. The SDF prefers diplomatic efforts before considering military engagement, particularly amid indications of a U.S. troop withdrawal, which may weaken their position if conflict arises.
Kurdish administrators have initiated diplomatic engagements with the new HTS-led government while working to secure their region’s stability. Notably, relations have improved enough to recognize the Syrian revolutionary flag, reflecting a readiness to cooperate despite historical grievances. However, challenges persist, as HTS demands formation of a cohesive national army, which the SDF opposes unless it can maintain its autonomy and protect its territorial rights.
Tensions between local populations and the SDF are evident, particularly with some Arab communities expressing dissatisfaction towards SDF governance. Yet, positive developments arise, such as the PKK’s intent to demobilize in the framework of peace negotiations with Turkey. The SDF remains committed to diplomacy, with leadership emphasizing the importance of achieving stable governance amidst potential threats.
As regional conflicts continue, the SDF faces daily dangers from drone strikes while simultaneously addressing the plight of displaced persons from recent Turkey-led offensives. The humanitarian situation remains precarious, with many individuals living in makeshift accommodations like schools. Despite the chaos, local residents yearn for peace and stability, emphasizing the need for assured protection of their rights and identity amid ongoing uncertainties.
The situation in northeast Syria represents a complex interplay of power dynamics following the recent fall of the Assad regime. While the SDF strives to maintain its autonomy and protect its constituents from external threats, ongoing diplomatic engagements with the HTS and the recent PKK disarmament proposal indicate a possible path towards stability. However, the risks of renewed conflict remain ever-present as local communities advocate for their rights and security.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
