Syrian Kurdish Commander Mazloum Abdi Appointed Presidential Adviser

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has appointed Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as a presidential adviser, a move welcomed by Syrian Kurdish political figures and a senior Arab official in the Hasakeh region. This appointment is seen as a significant step that could accelerate the integration of Kurdish forces and bolster security and stability across northern and eastern Syria.

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We view this appointment positively and consider it an important step that could open the way to a new phase of dialogue and understanding.

The decision follows Abdi's recent announcement of the SDF's dissolution, marking the end of a significant chapter for the Kurdish community, which played a crucial role in fighting ISIS with U.S. support during Syria's civil war. The appointment is part of a broader agreement signed by al-Sharaa and Abdi, which outlines the integration of the Kurdish Autonomous Administration's military, security, and civilian institutions into Syrian state structures.

Kurdish politicians expressed optimism about the appointment, viewing it as a positive development that could pave the way for a new phase of dialogue and understanding. Abdul Karim Omar, a Syrian Kurdish politician, stated that placing a figure like Abdi, who holds influence in northern and eastern Syria, in an advisory role could help bridge divides, build trust, and open communication channels on national issues.

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placing a figure such as Abdi, who has a presence and a role in northern and eastern Syria, in an advisory position at the presidency could help bring views closer together, build trust and open broader channels of communication on national issues.

Omar further suggested that genuine dialogue and political will stemming from this appointment could lay the groundwork for gradual, mutually agreed institutional integration. This process, he believes, would preserve the unique character of Kurdish regions and the rights of all communities while strengthening Syria's unity and sovereignty. A senior Arab dignitary echoed these hopes, anticipating that the integration process will quickly enhance security and stability, benefiting Syria as a whole.

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genuine understandings between the two sides could lay the groundwork for gradual, mutually agreed institutional integration that preserves the particular character of the Kurdish regions and the rights of all their communities, while strengthening Syria’s unity and sovereignty.

Abdelaziz Tammo, President of the Independent Syrian Kurds Association, noted that the appointment was anticipated. The broader agreement also includes provisions for handing over border crossings and oil and gas fields, as well as the departure of foreign fighters from the region, signaling a significant shift in the governance and security landscape of Syria.

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help consolidate stability and security in northern and eastern Syria and across the country, and open a new chapter based on national partnership.