Syrian Kurdish forces dissolve, integrate into state military amid mixed reactions

Key facts

• The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led group, has officially dissolved.
• SDF fighters are being integrated into the Syrian state military.
• The interim Syrian government has pledged to strengthen Kurdish rights, including recognition of the Kurdish language in education.
• International players, including France and the U.S., have welcomed the move.
• The SDF previously controlled a de facto autonomous zone encompassing about 25% of Syria.

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led group that once controlled a significant portion of northeastern Syria, has officially dissolved. Commander Mazloum Abdi announced the transition, which involves integrating SDF fighters into the official Syrian state military and handing over civilian institutions to state control. This move has been met with mixed emotions among Kurds, with some expressing hope for secured rights and others lamenting the loss of the SDF as an organization.

Many Kurds are cautiously optimistic, placing their trust in Abdi and the new government to protect their basic rights, including the freedom to speak their language and manage their land. However, some, like Jwan Mohammed, who was displaced from Afrin, find it difficult to accept the end of the SDF, given its sacrifices against the Islamic State. Residents have also faced price increases and deteriorating living conditions since the central government took control and removed fuel subsidies.

The integration has been welcomed by international observers and the Syrian interim government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa. French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Syria on the step, and U.S. envoy Tom Barrack described the announcement as "historic," praising the leadership for fostering partnership. Nechirvan Barzani, president of Iraq’s Kurdish region, also welcomed the agreement and called for support from all Syrian components. The Syrian government has pledged to recognize the Kurdish language in education and has reportedly offered senior SDF figures, including Abdi and Elham Ahmad, substantive roles in the new administration.