Kurdish-led SDF announces dissolution and merger with Syrian army

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have announced their dissolution and integration into the Syrian army under a deal with Damascus. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi says the move ends the group’s status as an independent armed force. The SDF lost significant territory to Syrian government forces in January before agreeing to integrate into state institutions. The deal also includes guarantees for Kurdish cultural, civil and educational rights. The move is a major step towards reunifying Syria’s armed forces and territory after years of fragmentation. However, questions remain over heavy weapons and the future role of the SDF’s women fighters. Al Jazeera’s Heidi Pett reports from Damascus. Saleh Mubarak, a Syrian-American professor and writer, told Al Jazeera the SDF’s dissolution could help end a chapter of conflict and strengthen Syria’s unity. He said he was optimistic the deal would recognise Syria’s diversity, including the Kurdish community, while allowing the country to remain united. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X: https://X.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile #Syria #SDF #SyrianGovernment #SyrianArmy #MazloumAbdi #SyrianDemocraticForces #SDFDissolution #SDFIntegration #SyrianKurds #KurdishForces #AhmedAlSharaa #NortheastSyria #KurdishRights