Syrian President Appoints SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi as Adviser

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has appointed Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as an adviser to the president. This significant move has been met with optimism by Syrian Kurdish political figures and a senior Arab official in the Hasakeh region, who believe it could accelerate the integration of Kurdish forces and bolster security in 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 appointment comes just days after Abdi announced the dissolution of the SDF, marking the "completion of its mission." This decision signals a new chapter for the Kurdish community, which played a crucial role in fighting ISIS with U.S. support during Syria's protracted civil war. The move is seen as a potential step towards greater national dialogue and understanding.

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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.

Abdul Karim Omar, a Syrian Kurdish politician, described the appointment as "an important step that could open the way to a new phase of dialogue and understanding." He suggested that placing a figure like Abdi, who holds significant influence in northern and eastern Syria, in an advisory role could help bridge divides, build trust, and foster broader communication on national issues. Omar emphasized that genuine dialogue could pave the way for gradual institutional integration that respects the unique character of Kurdish regions and the rights of all communities, while reinforcing Syria's unity and sovereignty.

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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.

This development is intrinsically linked to the January 29 agreement signed by President al-Sharaa and Abdi. This accord outlines the integration of the military, security, and civilian institutions of the Kurdish Autonomous Administration, established by the Kurds during the conflict, into the Syrian state's framework. Key aspects of the agreement include the handover of border crossings and oil and gas fields, as well as the withdrawal of foreign fighters from the region. Abdelaziz Tammo, President of the Independent Syrian Kurds Association, noted that Abdi's appointment was "expected," suggesting a pre-existing plan for this transition.

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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.