Northeast Syria, particularly Kobani, faces a transformative period as Commander Zanarin Kobani and the SDF adapt to threats following the Assad regime’s fall. The SDF focuses on their autonomy while facing incursions from Turkish-backed factions and seeking diplomatic channels for stability amidst regional turbulence and the potential resurgence of ISIS sleeper cells. The situation remains precarious as Kurdish rights hang in the balance.
In Kobani, Commander Zanarin Kobani of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) oversees an extensive tunnel network carved to evade Turkish drone strikes. The SDF’s underground hideout features modern amenities, including a kitchen and Wi-Fi, while Ms. Kobani monitors the city’s critical areas through live surveillance. With stringent security measures, she cannot freely move, aware that detecting her presence by drones could lead to an immediate strike.
Since 2019, the SDF has transitioned its focus from countering ISIS, which it had previously subdued with American aid, to responding to threats from nearby Turkey. Ankara perceives the Kurdish-controlled north-eastern Syria region, or Rojava, as a significant security risk, branding the YPG—a dominant SDF faction—as a terrorist group affiliated with the PKK. Abdullah Ocalan’s recent call for the PKK’s disbandment and disarmament may alter the dynamics between Turkey and the Kurdish leadership.
SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi acknowledged Ocalan’s call as historic but clarified that it pertains solely to the PKK, not to their operations in Syria. Turkey has executed multiple military interventions in northern Syria, partnering with Syrian National Army (SNA) groups to seize territorial gains, escalating tensions following the recent collapse of the Assad regime.
While engaging with the new HTS-led government for political stability, the SDF remains vigilant regarding its rights amidst recurrent threats from Turkey-backed entities. In light of regional military campaigns and worries about women’s rights, Ms. Kobani expressed the need for firm international assurances to prevent occupation and violence from Turkish or HTS forces.
The SDF prefers pursuing diplomatic paths over military conflict, believing a direct confrontation with Turkey could be disastrous without support. Collaborations have been initiated with new administration leaders, with the SDF recognizing the Syrian revolutionary flag and facilitating oil supplies to Damascus, signaling a willingness to cooperate for regional governance.
Kurdish citizens have celebrated the regime’s downfall, symbolically renaming public spaces while dismantling statues of Assad. However, significant challenges persist, as HTS insists on the incorporation of all military factions into a national army, a proposition the SDF rebuffs, emphasizing its sovereignty and land protection priorities.
The SDF’s exclusion from pivotal national dialogues raises concerns about its marginalization. Concurrently, internal pressures mount as discontent among local Arab communities grows, marking a turbulent time for the SDF amidst a potential resurgence of ISIS in the region. The desire for stability is paramount for the war-weary residents, many expressing that their primary concern is the safeguarding of their identity, irrespective of ruling governance.
“People here will not accept any occupation” – The National. “We need international guarantees that Turkey will stop attacking us.” – The National. “We just want peace and stability.” – The National.
In summary, as northern Syria undergoes significant political shifts following Assad’s fall, the SDF is navigating a precarious landscape filled with military threats from Turkey and heightened internal tensions. Diplomatic engagement with emerging authorities offers a chance for stability, though serious hurdles remain, particularly regarding the inclusion of Kurdish rights and regional security. The continued unrest from ISIS sleeper cells further complicates the region’s future, underscoring the pressing need for a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
