Syrian Kurdish forces announce integration into state institutions

Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), announced the completion of the military, security, and administrative integration of his forces into Syrian state institutions. This move, formalized under a January 29 agreement, marks a significant step toward consolidating Syrian government control.

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there is a difference between announcing an integration decision and completing its implementation on the ground.

Ahmed al-Hilali, deputy governor of Syria’s Hasakah province and spokesperson for the presidential team overseeing integration, hailed Abdi's announcement. He described it as an acknowledgment of the SDF's dissolution and a positive development transitioning from understandings to actual implementation. Al-Hilali stated that the integration would translate into practical measures, including unifying institutions, administrative authority, and restoring the state's full powers to ensure unified decision-making and Syrian sovereignty.

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integration was “complex and intertwined and cannot be concluded with a statement.”

Abdi made the announcement during celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Qamishli's founding. He stated the goal was to end "dual structures and parallel entities" and establish "one state, one army and unified institutions." Al-Hilali echoed this sentiment, noting that steps like removing partisan symbols from institutions and flags from public squares confirm the process is moving forward.

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an important and positive development

Despite the positive reception from Syrian officials, some experts urge caution. Syrian Kurdish writer and political researcher Ali Tami told Asharq Al-Awsat that the integration process is complex and intertwined, suggesting it cannot be concluded with a single statement. Tami also challenged Abdi’s claim that supporting fighters had left the region, noting the continued presence of foreign fighters and remnants of the former regime in Hasakah. Al-Hilali acknowledged that while the announcement is a significant political step, it does not signify the completion of all stages of administrative, security, and military implementation. The ultimate objective, he explained, is to institutionalize these decisions fully, making Syrian state institutions the sole authority.

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the announcement would translate into practical measures, including unifying institutions and administrative authority and restoring the state’s full powers, ensuring unified decision-making and Syrian sovereignty.