Syrian Kurdish leader Abdi appointed presidential adviser amid SDF dissolution

Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has been appointed a presidential adviser in Syria, a move welcomed by Syrian Kurdish political figures and a senior Arab official. The appointment, announced Thursday, follows Abdi's declaration of the SDF's dissolution after what he termed the "completion of its mission." This development marks a significant shift for the Kurdish forces who were instrumental in fighting ISIS with U.S. support during Syria's civil war.

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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.

Syrian Kurdish politician Abdul Karim Omar, who previously served in the Autonomous Administration, views the appointment positively. He believes it could initiate a new phase of dialogue and understanding, potentially helping to bridge divides and build trust on national issues. Omar suggested that placing a figure like Abdi, who holds influence in northern and eastern Syria, in an advisory role could facilitate closer communication and pave the way for institutional integration.

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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.

This integration, Omar explained, should preserve the distinct character of Kurdish regions and the rights of all communities while strengthening Syria's unity and sovereignty. He stressed that genuine understanding and dialogue could lay the groundwork for gradual, mutually agreed institutional integration. If supported by political will, these steps could consolidate stability and security across Syria, ushering in an era of national partnership.

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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.

The appointment and the SDF's dissolution are linked to a January 29 agreement between President al-Sharaa and Abdi. This accord outlines the integration of the Kurdish Autonomous Administration's military, security, and civilian institutions into Syrian state structures. It also includes provisions for handing over border crossings and oil and gas fields, and for the departure of foreign fighters from the region. Abdelaziz Tammo, President of the Independent Syrian Kurds Association, noted that the appointment was anticipated, suggesting it aligns with broader political realignments.

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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.