Syria's new political landscape - UPDATES

[Anthea]

ENKS on Exclusion from Syrian
National Dialogue Preparations

The Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS) has voiced concerns over its exclusion from the preparatory committee for the upcoming Syrian National Dialogue Congress

The council stated that the exclusion undermines the process of inclusive dialogue and fails to represent the full spectrum of Syria’s national and political components.

The ENKS Secretariat General released a statement emphasizing that the formation of the preparatory committee, announced on February 11, should have reflected Syria’s political and ethnic diversity. The council asserted that the committee should have included representatives from all Syrian factions, including the Kurdish political movement, to ensure a meaningful and inclusive dialogue aimed at resolving the country’s longstanding crisis.

The council warned that sidelining Kurdish representation in discussions on Syria’s future is a concerning precedent and could hinder efforts to build a balanced and sustainable national dialogue. It stressed that genuine reconciliation and a comprehensive peace process require the participation of all ethnic and political groups.

In its statement, the ENKS called for rectifying the mistake by reviewing the composition of the preparatory committee and ensuring fair participation for all communities, including the Kurds. It urged all parties involved in the dialogue process to respect the principles of inclusivity, national partnership, and balanced representation in shaping Syria’s political future.

The Kurdish National Council has long advocated for a democratic and pluralistic Syria, where Kurdish rights are recognized and national dialogue reflects the true composition of the country. The ongoing tensions surrounding Kurdish participation in peace talks highlight broader political challenges facing efforts to build a lasting settlement for Syria’s future governance.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/875223

[Anthea]

Kurdistan’s Prime Minister Discuses

Mediation and Kurdish Unity

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Masrour Barzani, addressed key regional dynamics in an exclusive interview with al-Arabia news channel, highlighting mediation efforts between Turkey and Kurds in Western Kurdistan, the importance of Kurdish unity, and the broader political landscape in Syria

He also shed light on his recent meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani and shared his perspective on the future of the Kurdish cause in the region.

Erbil’s Role in De-escalation Efforts Between Turkey and Kurds in Western Kurdistan

Prime Minister Barzani acknowledged the Kurdistan Region’s concerns regarding developments in Syria, given its direct geographical proximity and the presence of a significant Kurdish population across the border.

He stressed the need for stability and peace, not only for the Kurdish people but for all Syrians, emphasizing that Erbil has sought to play a constructive role in de-escalating tensions between Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)

“In our discussions with Turkish leaders, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, we had very frank and open conversations about the current situation. There was a mutual understanding that de-escalation is necessary, and that time should be given to allow for peaceful solutions,” Barzani stated.

He also recognized Turkey’s security concerns regarding the presence of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) in Syria, which has become a point of contention in the region.

“The key to progress is reducing tensions, ensuring that Syrian Kurds distance themselves from the PKK, and avoiding actions that would jeopardize the entire Kurdish population due to external conflicts,” he added.

Mazloum Abdi’s Visit to Erbil and Kurdish Unity

Barzani confirmed that Mazloum Abdi, the General Commander of the SDF, was invited to Erbil, where he met with President Masoud Barzani. During these discussions, President Barzani encouraged Kurdish factions to set aside their differences and establish a united front.

“A united Kurdish position would strengthen their influence in pursuing peaceful and sustainable solutions for Syria’s future,” Barzani emphasized.

He also noted that Erbil advised Western Kurdistan leaders to develop a structured mechanism to engage with Damascus, ensuring that Kurdish rights are safeguarded within a broader Syrian political framework.

Barzani’s Meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani

Addressing his recent closed-door meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani in Davos, Barzani clarified that there were no hidden agendas, and the discussions focused on the importance of a peaceful resolution to the Syrian crisis.

“There were no secrets in our meeting. We spoke about the need for stability and a political transition that ensures the rights of all Syrians—Kurds, Alawites, Druze, and others. It is not our role to dictate what the Kurds in Syria should do; rather, they must determine their own future in a way that is sustainable and beneficial for Syria as a whole,” he explained.

Kurdistan Region’s Stance on the Syrian Democratic Forces

When asked about the relationship between the SDF and Damascus, Barzani clarified that while the SDF plays an important role, it does not represent the entire Kurdish population in Syria

“There are multiple Kurdish political factions in Syria, and it is important that all are included in discussions about Syria’s future,” he noted. “Damascus must engage with all Kurdish voices, not just the SDF.”

Barzani urged the SDF to cooperate with other Kurdish factions, ensuring that the broader Kurdish interests are represented and that their vision aligns with an inclusive political process.

The Future of the Kurdish Cause and Regional Relations

When asked about the long-standing aspiration for an independent Kurdish state, Barzani offered a nuanced perspective, stating that the treatment of Kurds in the countries where they reside will ultimately shape their political future.

He drew a parallel with the European Union, highlighting how nations that once fought for sovereignty have now embraced integration and cooperation.

“If equality, justice, and respect are extended to the Kurds, societies can progress together. However, if Kurds continue to face injustice and oppression, their reactions will reflect that reality,” he asserted.

Final Messages to Regional Leaders

Barzani concluded the interview with messages directed at key figures in the region.

To Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader, PM Barzani stated, “He must be a president for all Syrians and respect all communities.”

To Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani, PM Barzani said, “He must govern for all Iraqis and continue his positive relations with the Kurdistan Region.”

To Mazloum Abdi, PM Barzani asserted, “He should work toward Kurdish unity in Syria.”

To Abdullah Ocalan, PM Barzani stated, “I hope he will one day be released and that a peaceful solution for Kurds in Turkey is reached.”

A Diplomatic Approach to a Complex Regional Issue

Barzani’s statements reflect the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to diplomatic engagement in regional affairs, emphasizing peaceful mediation, Kurdish unity, and the necessity of political inclusivity in Syria.

As Syria navigates its transitional period, the role of Erbil in facilitating dialogue and fostering regional stability remains crucial in shaping the future of Kurdish and Syrian politics alike.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... ain-future

[Anthea]

National Dialogue Committee

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Hassan Al-Daghim, a member of the Preparatory Committee for the Syrian National Dialogue Conference, emphasized that the conference aims to achieve national reconciliation, civil peace, and transitional justice

He assured that it will be inclusive of all Syrians, without ethnic or sectarian divisions, and that Kurds will have a fundamental role in the dialogue.

In an interview with Kurdistan24, Al-Daghim highlighted the importance of ensuring broad representation of Syria’s diverse communities, stating that the success of any national dialogue depends on inclusivity and fairness in addressing the country’s political future.

International Support and Independent National Leadership

Addressing the role of the international community, Al-Daghim clarified that while global actors are invited to participate, their role will be limited to supporting the new administration and the transitional phase.

He stressed that the committee is an independent national body, responsible for drafting its own internal regulations, electing its leadership, and executing its programs without external influence.

Selection Criteria for Conference Participants

Al-Daghim explained that while every Syrian who has made sacrifices deserves to be part of the national dialogue, it is not logistically feasible to gather all voices in one setting.

Therefore, the committee will select participants based on credibility, integrity, neutrality, influence, knowledge, expertise, and competence.

He emphasized that the conference will reflect Syria’s ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity to ensure fairness in the process.

Ensuring Fair Representation for Kurds

When asked about Kurdish representation, Al-Daghim reiterated that the conference is open to all Syrians, including Kurds, Turkmens, Arabs, Muslims, Christians, Alawites, Sunnis, and Shiites.

He stressed that while the conference does not recognize ethnic or sectarian quotas, it will guarantee that Syria’s diverse communities, including Kurds, are fairly represented as an integral part of the nation’s history, present, and future.

Participation of the Autonomous Administration in the Dialogue

Al-Daghim clarified that engagement with communities in Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, and Hasakah does not require approval from local governing authorities.

He stated that the committee has already engaged with technocrats, intellectuals, writers, and poets, emphasizing that the dialogue is a national civic initiative, not a military or political negotiation.

Commitment to Transparency

In response to concerns over transparency, Al-Daghim assured that the committee's work will be fully public, with visits to various provinces and open discussions with academics, business leaders, and intellectuals.

He asserted that nothing will be conducted in secrecy, and all discussions will be available for public scrutiny.

Addressing Kurdish Cultural and Political Rights

Al-Daghim maintained that no ethnic or religious group will receive preferential treatment, warning against sectarian and ethnic power-sharing systems seen in Lebanon and Iraq.

He argued that national identity must remain the foundation of the new Syria, where Arabs represent Kurds, and Kurds represent Arabs, fostering a unified society.

Fostering Dialogue Among Syrian Communities

According to Al-Daghim, the committee has opened channels of communication with all components of Syrian society, with plans to visit Homs first, followed by other provinces.

He described the conference as the culmination of ongoing national consensus efforts, rather than the beginning of a new process.

Al-Daghim’s remarks come after his earlier controversial statements regarding Kurdish participation, where he initially opposed Kurdish involvement in the conference.

However, following strong reactions from the Kurdish National Council (KNCS), the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), and international opposition—particularly from the International Coalition and the European Union—his position shifted.

Previously, Al-Daghim had stated that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) would not be included in the dialogue, asserting that they do not represent all Syrian Kurds.

His remarks were widely criticized as an attempt to marginalize Kurdish political influence.

Calls for Inclusive Representation

Both the KNCS and AANES have rejected the exclusion of Kurds, emphasizing that the conference should reflect Syria’s ethnic and political diversity.

Kurdish leaders have warned that sidelining Kurdish representation undermines the credibility of the process and risks reverting Syria to a centralized governance model.

The International Coalition’s Role

In response to growing concerns, the International Coalition has initiated efforts to establish a unified Kurdish delegation for direct negotiations with Damascus.

This move reflects a broader international push to ensure a more inclusive political process in Syria.

diplomatic efforts continue and Kurdish political entities insist that any long-term political settlement must guarantee full representation and national partnership, ensuring that all components of Syrian society have a voice in shaping the country's future.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... a-key-role

[Anthea]

SDF’s Drone Warfare

A Tactical Shift in Syria’s Ongoing Conflict

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - According to an analysis published by Federico Borsari on Militant Wire, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has rapidly evolved its use of drones to reshape the battlefield against better-equipped adversaries. Borsari, a resident fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA) and a defense analyst specializing in modern warfare, details how the group's adaptation of small drone warfare has intensified in recent weeks

In the cover of the night, a Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) convoy cautiously moves near Syria’s strategic Tishreen Dam. Unbeknownst to them, a modified commercial drone, equipped with thermal sensors and loaded with repurposed VOG-17 munitions, silently tracks their movement. Moments later, precision strikes illuminate the night sky as vehicles erupt in flames. This scenario, once rare, has now become a frequent occurrence in the region, marking the SDF’s growing proficiency in drone warfare.

A Rapidly Evolving Drone Program

Borsari’s analysis indicates that the SDF has doubled its drone attacks in just one month, escalating from 61 observed strikes in December 2024 to 135 in January 2025. While commercial drones have been used in conflicts worldwide, the SDF’s strategy is unique in its deliberate emphasis on mobility denial.

“More than half of the observed drone strikes—57%—have targeted vehicles rather than personnel or buildings,” Borsari explains. “This is a calculated move. The SDF understands that its adversaries, particularly the Syrian National Army (SNA), have greater conventional military capabilities, including heavy armor and advanced intelligence support from Turkey. By focusing on vehicles, the SDF disrupts their logistics and freedom of movement, limiting their ability to sustain operations.”

The SDF’s approach is not about holding territory through conventional means but rather ensuring that enemy forces cannot freely operate in contested zones. This mirrors tactics seen in Ukraine, where drones are leveraged to undermine superior mechanized forces.

The Tools of a Modern Insurgency

The SDF primarily relies on modified commercial drones, including DJI and Autel models for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as weaponized first-person view (FPV) drones for kamikaze-style attacks. These FPV drones, built from affordable Chinese carbon frames, are armed with adapted PG-7 HEAT grenades or repurposed 60mm mortar rounds.

“The combination of commercially available drones and repurposed explosives has become standard practice in modern conflicts, from Ukraine to Sudan to Myanmar,” Borsari notes. “The SDF is not reinventing drone warfare; it is implementing proven tactics with remarkable efficiency.”

Crowdfunding initiatives have also played a role in sustaining the SDF’s drone program, following a trend seen in the Ukrainian conflict. These funds have enabled the SDF to expand operations and maintain a high tempo of strikes despite limited resources.

A Strategic Focus on the Tishreen Dam

The concentration of drone strikes around the Tishreen Dam and the Manbij countryside underscores the SDF’s strategic priorities.

“The Tishreen Dam is a critical infrastructure asset,” Borsari says. “Controlling the area means holding leverage over water and power supplies in the region, making it a key target for both the SDF and its adversaries.”

Drone attacks have not been limited to SNA positions; Turkish military outposts have also faced repeated strikes, sometimes multiple times per day. This highlights the SDF’s growing confidence in deploying drones against not just proxy forces but also a NATO-member military.

A Growing Tactical Advantage

The SDF’s drone operations follow a structured approach. ISR drones provide real-time intelligence from 150-300 meters above ground, enabling accurate targeting. FPV drones and explosive-dropping UAVs then execute strikes, while ISR platforms remain overhead to conduct immediate battle damage assessments and ensure follow-up attacks if needed.

“Their command structure mirrors what we’ve seen in Ukraine and with groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS),” Borsari explains. “They use semi-fixed command centers for coordination and rely on mobile drone teams to provide tactical flexibility. Crucially, they have also adopted tunnel networks to conceal movements and launch attacks from secure locations.”

Despite their success, the SDF is not immune to imitation. The SNA has begun deploying its own FPV drones, a direct response to the SDF’s effectiveness.

“Drone warfare is becoming a standardized practice across different conflicts,” Borsari warns. “As commercial drone technology and weaponization techniques spread, the tactical advantage of any given force will be short-lived unless it continuously adapts.”

A Broader Trend in Modern Warfare

The SDF’s drone strategy represents a broader trend in asymmetric warfare: non-state actors using commercially available technology to challenge conventional militaries.

“This is a significant shift,” Borsari concludes. “We are witnessing the continued democratization of drone warfare. The real advantage no longer lies in technological innovation alone but in superior mission planning, target selection, and tactical adaptation.”

As the battle for control over the Tishreen Dam and surrounding areas intensifies, the SDF’s drone campaign serves as a case study of how insurgent forces can leverage modern technology to counter more powerful adversaries. Whether this advantage will hold remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the era of small drone warfare is here to stay.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... g-conflict

[Anthea]

Syria’s National Conference Begins

Without SDF Representation

The national dialogue conference aimed at shaping Syria’s political future following the fall of former President Bashar Assad began on Monday, with Kurdish representatives notably absent from the discussions

The main session is set for Tuesday, where participants will engage in workshops covering key issues such as transitional justice, constitutional reforms, institutional rebuilding, personal freedoms, the role of civil society, and economic policies.

However, the conference’s outcomes will be nonbinding recommendations to the country’s new leadership.

Plans for the conference remained uncertain until the last moment, with authorities only announcing the date on Sunday, just a day before its commencement.

Two days earlier, Hassan al-Daghim, spokesperson for the organizing committee, had stated that the timing was still under discussion and that the number of attendees could range from 400 to 1,000.

According to the state-run SANA news agency, the committee conducted over 30 meetings across Syria’s provinces, engaging around 4,000 people to ensure broad societal representation.

Armed groups participating in these meetings reportedly agreed to dissolve and integrate into the new national army and security forces.

Despite these efforts at inclusivity, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which controls much of northeastern Syria, was not invited to take part in the dialogue.

Their exclusion raises questions about the conference’s ability to genuinely reflect Syria’s diverse political and social landscape.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/876227

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have always refused to work with other Kurdish groups so do NOT deserve a place in the meetings

Only a unified Kurdish organization has the right to speak on behalf of Kurds

[Anthea]

KNCS calls for inclusive
political process in Syria

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdish National Council in Syria (KNCS) reaffirmed its commitment to a democratic and inclusive political future for Syria, emphasizing the importance of decentralization and the protection of all ethnic, cultural, and religious communities

In a statement released Monday, the KNCS expressed concern over the recent Syrian National Dialogue Conference but underscored its support for any initiative that advances the political process and alleviates the suffering of the Syrian people.

"We emphasize our support for a democratic state that upholds the rights of all communities, particularly the Kurdish people, in accordance with international law," the statement read.

The KNCS highlighted the need for greater inclusivity in Syria’s political transition, advocating for meaningful representation of all national political structures. The council urged future dialogues to ensure broad participation from all political entities, particularly Kurdish representatives, to foster a truly democratic and unified Syria.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... s-in-syria

As with the previous post, as long as the SDF bullies ignore the majority of Kurds within Syria, Kurds will remain without representation

[Anthea]

Syria needs emergency plan:
Al-Sharaa at National Conference

During the opening of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference's main session, transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa emphasized that Syria should not be divided

Ahmad al-Sharaa, the head of the transitional government in Syria, opened the main session of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference on Tuesday.

He stressed that "Syria will not tolerate division; it remains an indivisible nation," underscoring that "the exclusive control of weapons by the state is not a privilege, but a fundamental duty and responsibility."

Al-Sharaa further stated, "Syria has endured immense pain and suffering under decades of the former regime's rule," urging conference participants to work together and engage in constructive dialogue for the country's future.

In his speech, he stated, "The next stage requires work and reconstruction, not mourning over ruins," and added, "Syria has called on you today to come together and consult about the future of your country and your nation."

He continued, "Syria needs an emergency plan, followed by a medium-term plan, and then a comprehensive strategy," emphasizing that civil peace must be a responsibility shared by all citizens of the country.

Regarding security prosecutions, al-Sharaa explained that over the past two months, authorities have been working to pursue those responsible for crimes against Syrians, emphasizing that there is a strong focus on strengthening transitional justice in the next phase.

Al-Sharaa emphasized that a body will be established to implement transitional justice, urging the establishment of a Syrian state founded on the rule of law, with respect for it from all parties.

The conference, which began yesterday, has brought together over 500 Syrian political and national figures. It continues its discussions on the country's future, considering the current situation, on its second day.
SDF was not invited

On the other hand, The New York Times reported that invitations for the dialogue were sent to hundreds of participants, including academics, religious leaders, journalists, businesspeople, activists, former detainees, and the families of those killed or injured in the war.

Among the invitees were some Kurds, who represent about 10 percent of Syria's population; however, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were not invited.

The organizers stated that the conference's recommendations on government formation, constitutional drafting, and legislation will be non-binding.

Hassan al-Daghim, the committee spokesperson, confirmed that these recommendations will lay the groundwork for the interim constitutional declaration, economic framework, and institutional reform plan.

https://english.almayadeen.net/news/pol ... dialogue-c

The SDF were probably not invited because they are bullies and have always refused to work with other Kurdish groups

[Anthea]

Syrian National Dialogue Conference

Not only all peoples, religions and sects should have attended the Syrian National Dialogue Conference, but also those who can express peoples, religions and sects, their fears and hopes should have attended

Of course it won't be easy because every party or party will claim to have the right to express its people, religion and sect... The peoples, religions and sects of Syria have also experienced a very long period of tyranny of the Syrian state, which has been able to brainwash not only the general people, but also brainwash the politicians and the educated elite.

Perseverance and the influence of Baath Party's thought for more than half a century has occupied a large space of the psychology of most Syrian slices and components, and their minds have been worn by the extremist Baath idea without knowing, even without having been affiliated with the Baath Party as well.

Therefore, I have a doubt about the beautiful and calm words said by Sheikh Ahmed Al-Shara and his group that have made themselves the state, the Syrian government and the preparatory committee for the Syrian National Dialogue and without being elected by the Syrian people, even without issuing a constitutional statement, showing the shape of the Syrian state, which seems to me that it will be very scary in what If they continue to ignore the reality of peoples, religions and sects in Syria as the ruling regime is ignoring it.

The publications that are issued about the new Syrian regime, have been heard by the Kurdish people over and over again in all the previous Syrian covenants and later extinguished its fire, because the Kurds have trusted all the covenants and in their public statements, and the Kurds have never realized that all the previous covenants had held on until they could.

Most of the statements of Sheikh Ahmed Al-Shara, his ministers and his committees... The one published on all media outlets is selective in excellence for mixing papers and ashes in the eyes of the simple people to give an image that in their statements they speak in the name of government and transitional justice while they distorted justice by their selective sentences, to name a few:

1. They ask the Kurds to hand over their weapons and integrate with the army of the new regime with the flag there are dozens of armed factions that have not surrendered their weapons and have not merged with the army of new regime, and some of these factions are attacking Kurdish cities in the east and west of Al-Furat, which has killed dozens of Kurdish civilians daily.

Another armed group fighting for the division of Kurdish properties among them, and for example not limited to 24-2-2025, there was a fight with light and heavy weapons between the "Hamzat Squad" and the "Rally of the East Free" on a plot of land and shops that were originally owned by the Kurds from the residents of the wounded city of Afrin, IN some of these fighting The displaced armed groups are only for distributing spoils.

2. The group of the new Syrian regime says: Kurds do not have a specific region, so they are divided into northeastern Syria and divided into Kurds neighborhood in Damascus city and other regions... Their purpose is to mix the papers that the Kurds do not have a specific geographical area.

The fact that northern Syria is from Mount Sinjar on the Iraqi border to Mount Kurd on the Syrian coast in northern Latakia is the west of Kurdistan, which was cut off from Greater Kurdistan, the motherland of the Kurdish people under The Sykes Pico agreement and the Lausanne colonial treaty.

The new Syrian regime should read the history of the formation of the Syrian state after the collapse of the Ottoman empire, while the presence of Kurds in Damascus and in all Syrian cities is a matter that has absolutely nothing to do with the geographical Kurdistan.

3. As the group of the new Syrian regime says: they cannot give the Kurds federalism or centralization because the Shirks, Armenians and Turkmen will demand Shirks, Armenian and Turkmen federalism, this is a clear mix of papers because the Kurds have been living, since the dawn of history, in Western Kurdistan, which was imposed by the Syrian artificial state after the First World War.

The Ottomans sent a Turkmen family with a horse to every city and village in their empire as centers for Ottoman mail handling, today the Turkmen have become more than one family because many Arabs and Kurds learned Turkmen to get jobs in the Ottoman mail, while the Shirks have fled to Syria from the Soviet communist rule in The time of Stalin, as well as Armenians fled to Syria from the spears of genocide that the Turks had claimed their right in the time of Ottomans and Mustafa Kamal. Comparing the Kurds to them is nothing but a distortion of public opinion and fishing with barren water in their likeness to the original Kurdish people as foreigners and refugees.

4. The new Syrian regime is arresting elements of the ruling regime and killing them while accepting a settlement to deploy others to recruit them and to benefit from their long experience in suppressing the Kurdish people.

5. The new Syrian regime directs its talk to the Kurds only about the unity of Syria and the sovereignty of the Syrian state, while in fact it has no existence on earth for the Syrian unity, as well as the Syrian sovereignty, these days and in the era of the ruling regime, is a fantasy word in every sense, there is no place for sovereignty in the existence of tens of foreign armies on Syrian soil: such as the American, Russian, Turkish, Israeli armies, Qasad forces, the forces of the South Darzia front, the Brigade of Ahmed Odeh in Armor, the Upper Syrian Coast Liberation Brigade.

More than sixty military factions and each faction belonging to a state from the countries of the world, even the Sham Liberation Authority has been collected from several countries in the world. Its leaders and ministers are Chechanyons, Jordanians and others, and the fact is that the new Syrian regime ignores the existence of all these armies and instead of directing this talk to themselves, they direct only the Kurds as if only the Kurds violate the sovereignty and unity of the Syrian state.

Here, I directed my words to the weak Kurdish forces and their commander, General Mazlum Abdi, to pay close attention to the issue of surrendering their weapons and they should refuse to surrender them, no matter what the circumstances are, because the Kurdish people are so preoccupied with domestic, regional and international conspiracies

Here is one of the conspiracies that the Kurdish people have, the conspiracy of "Egyptian Syrian Unity" created by the deep state in both Turkey, Syria and Egypt, which culminates in the declaration of Syrian Egyptian Unity in 1958 in order to eliminate the very strong Kurdish presence in Syria, which terrified Turkey and Syria alone was unable to destroy the Kurdish existence.

The unity of Syria with Egypt was the strong state that was able to control the Kurdish presence in Syria and was the most important center of the Kurdish presence in the Syrian army, where the Kurds in Syria reached the highest military ranks not through military coups, revolutions, uprisings and security inflation as usually happens, but the Kurds received Their military centers in the Syrian army by their wall, competence and military capabilities, as any Kurdish general in the Syrian Army could have made a military coup and make himself the president of Syria.

The first thing that the "Egyptian Syrian Unity" conspiracy did was that it discharged dozens of Kurdish officers from the Syrian army, and the following are some of the names of only Damascus Kurdish officers: Major Mahmoud Shoukat Alarshi, Colonel Fouad Mulatly, Colonel Bakri Qotresh, Colonel Ibrahim Perm, Colonel Mahmoud Qotresh and Colonel Issa Kakrly, Colonel Bakry Zaza and Colonel Mohammed Zulfo And many others who were discharged from the Syrian army and in one day and one racist decision and after that Syria secession from Egypt was ordered by a military coup fabricated by the deep state in both Turkey, Syria and Egypt too because Turkey does not want a strong state on its borders as Egypt strived to get rid of This is a burden.

It is worth noting that Major General Toufiq Nizam Din, the head of the Syrian Staff until 1958, and he is from Kurd of the Haska region in western Kurdistan, he was discharged along with other Kurdish officers and on the same day, and his Syrian citizenship was also withdrawn from him in 1962.

And so that conspiracies like this are not repeated against the Kurdish people, especially the dear General Mazlum Abdi, should refuse to surrender his weapons as he should refuse any command on the Kurdish people or on any people, religion or sect in Syria.

The only solution is for peoples, religions and sects to be self-determined, and this is by conducting a public referendum for every people, religion and sects to consider directing several main questions that express the concerns and hopes of everyone to know exactly what peoples, religios and sects want in Syria.

For example, the Kurdish people's referendum should be as follows:

Answer the survey paper in one word (yes or no):

A. Do you believe in Kurdish people getting their national, political, social and economic rights within self-government or federal within the Syrian state?
yes or no

B. If the new Syrian regime does not accept the implementation of any of the Kurdish rights mentioned for a maximum of six months, does the Kurdish people have the right to adhere to the project's right to determine its own fate and declare independence from the Syrian state?
yes or no

Only by that the fears and hopes of the Kurdish people in Syria are known, and from now on I am with the decision of the Kurdish people, whatever it is, negative or positive.

My heartfelt greetings to the Kurdish people

Dr Jawad Ibrahim Mulla

Here is the map of the journey and the Danish Kirsten Nibor in which the distribution of Kurdish tribes in western Kurdistan in the year 1774 AD, about 250 years before the establishment of the Syrian state that occupied western Kurdistan.

[Anthea]

Syrian President Forms Expert Committee

to Draft Constitutional Declaration

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa issued a decree on Sunday, forming a committee of experts tasked with drafting a constitutional declaration to govern the country’s transitional phase

According to a statement from the Syrian Presidency, published on the "X" platform, the newly established committee includes the following experts: Abdel Hamid Al-Awak, Yasser Al-Huwaish, Ismail Al-Khalfan, Rayaan Kahilan, Mohammed Rida Jalkhi, Bahiyya Mardini, and Ahmed Korbi.

The committee is mandated with preparing a draft of the constitutional declaration that will regulate the transitional period. The draft will then be submitted to the president for review.

A Step Aligned with the National Dialogue Conference

The presidency emphasized that this decision aligns with the aspirations of the Syrian people in building a state based on the rule of law. It is also in accordance with the outcomes of the Syrian National Dialogue Conference, with the aim of establishing the legal framework for the country’s transition.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... eclaration

[Anthea]

Syria Forms Constitutional Committee

Excludes Kurdish Parties

Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, announced on Sunday the formation of a committee to draft a constitutional declaration for the country’s transition following the removal of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad. However, Kurdish parties have been excluded from the process

A seven-member committee, including one woman, has been tasked with drafting the constitutional declaration that will regulate the transitional phase.

The committee will submit its proposals to the interim president, though no time frame has been specified.

Sharaa had previously promised in January to establish a legal framework for the transitional period.

The presidency’s statement emphasized that the committee was formed based on the aspirations of the Syrian people and the outcomes of the recent Syrian National Dialogue Conference in Damascus.

The committee includes legal experts such as Abdul Hamid al-Awak, a lecturer at a Turkish university, and Yasser al-Huwaish, the newly appointed dean of Damascus University’s law faculty.

Other members include Bahia Mardini, a journalist and legal expert based in Britain, and Ismail al-Khalfan, an international law specialist from Aleppo University.

The list also features Mohammed Reda Jalkhi, a recent graduate in international law from Idlib University.

The final statement from this week’s dialogue conference called for a permanent constitutional committee that would balance governmental powers, uphold justice, freedom, and equality, and establish a state based on law and institutions.

In December, a caretaker government was appointed to lead the country until March 1, when a new government is expected to be formed.

The exclusion of Kurdish parties from the constitutional process raises concerns about whether the transition will be truly inclusive, given the significant role Kurdish forces have played in Syria’s recent history.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/876832

Kurds were probably excluded due to the fact that SDF bullies have always refused to work with other Kurdish groups

Realistically, as SDF have always refused to work with other Kurdish groups, how could the be trusted to work for the betterment of all groups in Syria

[Anthea]

Mass Executions and Clashes

Leave Over 120 Dead

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Syria’s coastal province of Latakia witnessed one of its bloodiest days on Friday, as security forces reportedly executed 52 Alawite men and engaged in fierce clashes with pro-Assad militias, bringing the total death toll to at least 124 since Thursday. The violence marks the most intense confrontation between government forces and loyalists of the ousted president Bashar al-Assad since his fall in December

A source informed Kurdistan24 that Shinda Adel Kisho, a first-year medical student originally from Qamishli, was among the victims. She lost her life after being struck by a stray bullet during the clashes on Thursday night. Kisho had been studying medicine in Latakia, a city that remains a stronghold of Syria’s Alawite minority, to which the Assad family belongs.

Reports of Mass Executions

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported that security forces carried out mass executions of 52 Alawite men in the towns of Al-Shir and Al-Mukhtariya in Latakia’s countryside. Verified video footage and eyewitness accounts confirm that victims were rounded up and executed in cold blood.

One video shows dozens of bodies in civilian clothing piled near a house, with pools of blood visible on the ground, while women can be heard wailing in the background. Another clip shows three captives in military uniform forced to crawl before being shot at close range. A third video captures a gunman executing a young man in civilian clothing inside a building entrance.

Escalating Violence and Security Crackdown

Since Thursday, 72 more people have been killed, including 36 security personnel, 32 pro-Assad fighters, and four civilians. This brings the total death toll in Latakia to 124, with 52 previously reported fatalities.

The violence erupted in Beit Aana, the hometown of Suhail al-Hassan, a former senior military commander under Assad, when security forces attempted to arrest an arms dealer. The confrontation quickly escalated into armed resistance, leading to a military crackdown. Syrian helicopters bombed rebel positions, while artillery shelling hit nearby villages.

Damascus Targets Assad Loyalists

Since Assad’s fall on December 8, Syria’s new government has launched security operations against remnants of the former regime, particularly in central and western Syria, where many Alawite communities reside. These operations have resulted in clashes, gunfights, and targeted raids.

While officials blame pro-Assad militias for the instability, human rights groups and local residents report reprisal killings, home seizures, and summary executions, which authorities dismiss as "isolated incidents."

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... r-120-dead

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ENKS Warns of Rising Chaos

The Kurdish National Council (ENKS) has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Syria, warning that the latest developments will fuel further chaos and division

The group has urged the country’s new administration to handle the crisis with caution.

In a statement, the ENKS said it is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the clashes between the Syrian National Army and remnants of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in coastal areas.

“The ENKS strongly condemns all armed actions that threaten stability and public security. We believe that the dictatorial regime, which destroyed Syria and displaced millions, is still exploiting the situation to spread chaos and hinder genuine democratic change,” the statement read.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighting has left hundreds dead in recent days, with civilians making up the majority of casualties

The ENKS warned that the ongoing conflict will only deepen the suffering of Syrians and exacerbate divisions, accusing the Syrian interim government of systematically excluding and marginalizing communities—a policy that, they say, will have dangerous consequences for the country’s future.

The group called on Syria’s new administration to take immediate action to prevent further violations against civilians and to pursue a more inclusive approach.

“These incidents come at a time when protests are increasing across Syria, with growing demands for all communities to have a role in drafting the constitution and shaping the country’s reconstruction,” the ENKS noted.

As part of its response, the ENKS has reiterated its call for a national dialogue based on pluralism and democracy, emphasizing the need for all Syrian communities to have a voice in the country’s future.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/877369

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Syria’s interim president, SDF chief sign landmark deal

Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) chief Mazloum Abdi signed a landmark agreement on Monday to integrate the SDF into Syria's state institutions

After a meeting between Sharaa and Abdi, an agreement was reached to “integrate all civil and military institutions in Western Kurdistan under the administration of the Syrian state, including border crossings, the Qamishli International Airport, and oil and gas fields,” read a statement by the Syrian Presidency.

The statement emphasized that “the Kurdish community is indigenous to the Syrian state, which ensures this community’s right to citizenship and all of its constitutional rights.”

Following a swift offensive, a coalition of rebel groups led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) - headed by Sharaa - on December 8 toppled the Bashar al-Assad regime. Sharaa was in late January appointed as Syria’s interim President.

After his appointment, Sharaa vowed to uphold the rights of all ethnic and religious groups. However, the international community has repeatedly censured the new Damascus leadership for its treatment of Syria’s minority groups.

Monday’s agreement is considered a landmark deal since the Kurdish-controlled Rojava had previously rejected centralized rule, insisting on decentralization in post-Assad Syria.

Moreover, the Kurdish National Council (ENKS), an umbrella group of Kurdish opposition parties in Rojava, last week accused the new leadership in Damascus of making unilateral decisions that excluded ethnic and religious communities.

The ENKS and the Democratic Autonomous Administration in North and East Syria (DAANES) additionally censured a key conference held by Damascus in late February, the National Dialogue Conference, as “exclusionary” for its lacking Kurdish representation. The conference was intended to pave the way for the formation of an inclusive government and the drafting of a constitutional declaration

The agreement between Sharaa and Abdi further vows to “guarantee the rights of all Syrians to representation and participation in the political process and in all state institutions based on competence, regardless of their religious and ethnic backgrounds.”

It also called for a “ceasefire across all Syrian territories” and effectively pledged the SDF’s “support to the Syrian state in its fight against the remnants of [the] Assad [regime] and all threats to its security and unity.”

Recent violence erupted in the Alawite-majority coastal areas of western Syria, after Assad loyalists on Thursday launched attacks against security forces affiliated with the new Syrian leadership.

However, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights on Monday reported that around 1,500 people - mostly civilians - have been killed in western Syria amid the violence.

At least 973 civilians, many of whom are from the Alawite community - to which Assad also belongs - are among the death toll, according to the UK-based Observatory. The war monitor added that most of the civilian casualties were killed by government or government-affiliated forces.

The violence prompted widespread condemnation from the United Nations as well as western and regional countries. For their part, Saudi Arabia and Turkey have expressed support for Syria’s new authorities amid the unrest.

On Monday, Syria’s defense ministry said its forces had pushed the “remnants of the former regime” out of central coastal provinces like Latakia and Tartous and declared victory in their military operations.

The agreement between Sharaa and Abdi also called for “rejecting calls for division, hate speech, and attempts to spread discord among all components of Syrian society,” and urged the “return of all displaced Syrians to their towns and villages, ensuring their protection by the Syrian state.”

It stipulates that executive committees “should work and seek to implement” the provisions of the agreement “no later than the end of this year.”

The following is the full translation of the Syrian Presidency's statement regarding the historic agreement:

Based on a meeting held between President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and Mr. Mazloum Abdi on Monday, March 10, 2025, the following was agreed upon:

1- Guaranteeing the rights of all Syrians to representation and participation in the political process and all state institutions based on competence, regardless of their religious and ethnic backgrounds.

2 - The Kurdish community is an indigenous community in the Syrian state, and the Syrian state guarantees its right to citizenship and all its constitutional rights.

3- Ceasefire on all Syrian territories

4- Integrating all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into the administration of the Syrian state, including border crossings, the airport, and oil and gas fields.

5- Ensuring the return of all displaced Syrians to their towns and villages and ensuring their protection by the Syrian state.

6- Supporting the Syrian state in its fight against the remnants of Assad and all threats to its security and unity.

7- Rejecting calls for division, hate speech, and attempts to spread discord among all components of Syrian society.

8- The Executive Committees should work and seek to implement the agreement no later than the end of the year.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/100320251

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1,380+ civilians killed in Syria

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says although the violence has since subsided, the death toll continues to rise as more bodies are being discovered, many in farmland and private residences

At least 1,383 civilians, the vast majority of whom are Alawites, have been killed in a surge of violence along Syria’s Mediterranean coast, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported on Wednesday.

According to the Britain-based war monitor, the civilians were executed by security forces and allied groups following an outbreak of violence last week along Syria's coast.

Although the violence has since subsided, the death toll continues to rise as more bodies are being discovered, many in farmland and private residences, the Observatory noted.

Syria's Civil Defense said specialized teams retrieved on Tuesday the bodies of 26 people, nine from the city of Baniyas and 17 from the Latakia countryside.

The latest killings were recorded in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, as well as in the neighboring central province of Hama.

The Observatory accused security forces and their allied groups of carrying out "field executions, forced displacement and burning of homes, with no legal deterrent."

The violence erupted last Thursday when clashes broke out between security forces and militants affiliated with the regime of ousted President Bashar al-Assad.

At least 231 security personnel were reported killed in the clashes, according to official figures, while the observatory estimated that 250 militants were also killed.

The UN Human Rights Office stated that it had documented "summary executions" that appeared "to have been carried out on a sectarian basis."

Syria's Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who leads the Islamist group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) that led the offensive that ousted al-Assad, has pledged to prosecute those responsible for "the bloodshed of civilians" and has established a fact-finding committee.

The committee’s spokesperson, Yasser al-Farhan, affirmed Syria’s commitment to "prevent unlawful revenge and guarantee that there is no impunity."

Authorities have since announced the arrest of at least seven individuals on suspicion of committing "violations" against civilians.

'The land is soaked in blood'

Residents of villages in the Baniyas countryside are enduring dire conditions as violence and displacement continue to grip the region.

One eyewitness, a mother of four, described the severe deprivation her family is facing due to the ongoing siege, stating, "I have nothing to offer them but water and bread."

The accounts from those trapped in the area paint a grim picture of daily suffering. "Every day, we endure looting and killings, waking and sleeping to the sound of massacres," said another resident.

Others have called for urgent international intervention, pleading for the protection of the Syrian Alawite community and the opening of asylum pathways. "The land is soaked in blood—open the borders for us so we can leave and abandon everything to you," one witness implored.

The brutality of the violence has left many in fear for their lives. "They kill the children first to break their parents’ hearts," an eyewitness recounted.

As night falls, the terror intensifies. "Every time night falls, terror takes hold of us as we await execution in our homes," another resident said.

The deteriorating security situation has forced many to flee into the wilderness. "We have been living in the wilderness for four days, and some have died from the cold in the open," one witness reported.

Despite the ongoing violence, the perpetrators remain active in the region. "The faction responsible for the atrocities is still present in coastal villages, while residents remain scattered in the forests," an eyewitness from Baniyas stated.

The aftermath of the bloodshed is evident in the devastated streets. "The streets were filled with bodies before they were buried in mass graves," another witness said.

Amid the chaos, some residents question why they are being targeted. "Why are we being punished for the previous regime when we have no connection to it?" one resident asked.

Others described the attackers who stormed the al-Qusour neighborhood, noting their masked faces, sectarian chants, and foreign features.

The ongoing violence has triggered mass displacement, with many seeking refuge across the border. Al Mayadeen’s camera has documented the movement of displaced people from Syria into the Akkar villages of northern Lebanon following the bloodshed along the Syrian coast.

https://english.almayadeen.net/news/pol ... d-executio

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Russia considers SDF-Damascus deal

step towards Syrian stability

The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday that Moscow welcomes the recent agreement between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Damascus, adding that the move is an “important” step towards the war-torn country’s security and stability

“This agreement signed between the Syrian authorities and the Syrian Democratic Forces leadership is considered an important step toward ensuring Syrian unity and strengthening the country's security and stability,” Maria Zakharova told Rudaw’s Kamiz Shadadi during a press briefing.

“We understand that the practical implementation of these agreements will undoubtedly face many difficulties, threats, and various problems, and to overcome these difficulties, constructive efforts must continue, and certainly, they must be prepared for compromises. We hope that both sides will be able to achieve this,” she added.

Russia, which was a strong supporter of Syria’s ousted dictator Bashar al-Assad, has made efforts to restore ties with the new administration in Damascus. Russians used to play the role of a mediator between the regime and the SDF.

Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF chief Mazloum Abdi signed a landmark agreement on Monday to integrate all civil and military institutions in Western Kurdistan into the state institutions and the handover of the control of border crossings and oil fields.

SDF is the main ally of the US-led global coalition against the Islamic State (ISIS). It is also the de facto army of Western Kurdistan

SDF-affiliated media cited its spokesperson downplaying the agreement with Damascus, stating that the SDF will remain in control of oil fields.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/world/130320251