In a recent interview, the commander of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) emphasized the importance of establishing a secular, civil, and decentralized state in Syria following the ouster of the Assad family from power. The SDF commander highlighted the need for a state that treats all citizens equally regardless of their religion or ethnicity.
The fall of Bashar Assad on December 8 marked the end of the Assad family's 54-year rule in Syria after insurgents led by the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham captured Damascus. The Syrian factions that toppled Assad recently met in Damascus and named HTS leader al-Sharaa as the country's interim president, suspending the previous constitution and dissolving the army and security agencies.
The SDF commander stressed the importance of moving Syria forward without reviving the Baath party or its ideology, which was dissolved along with the ruling party. He expressed the SDF's commitment to negotiating with the new authorities to shape Syria's future.
Regarding the Kurds' position, the SDF commander clarified that the Kurds seek a decentralized state within a united Syria, not autonomy or separation. The SDF aims to be part of Syria's defense strategy and defense ministry while running local affairs in northeast Syria.
Furthermore, the SDF commander highlighted the ongoing threat posed by the Islamic State group (IS) and emphasized the need for U.S. troops to remain in Syria to combat the extremist organization. He cited concerns that IS could exploit a U.S. withdrawal to regain strength and called for continued coalition support in the fight against terrorism.
In conclusion, the SDF commander reiterated the group's vision for a democratic, inclusive Syria that respects the rights of all religious and ethnic groups. The SDF remains engaged in negotiations with the new Syrian authorities to shape the country's future based on dialogue and understanding.
