Kurdish Unity and US Military Buildup Define Syria’s New Phase
كوردی عربي ک.بادینی
Kurdî English

NEWS OPINION REPORTS INTERVIEWS ECONOMY MULTIMEDIA LIFESTYLE CULTURE & ARTS
×

Kurdish Unity and US Military Buildup Define Syria’s New Phase

ERBIL — As Syria embarks on a new transitional phase, Ahmed al-Sharaa has emerged as the internationally backed leader set to guide the country through its post-Assad restructuring; however, concerns remain regarding the extent of political inclusivity in this transition, particularly for Syria’s Kurdish factions.  

Jadaan Ali, the representative of the Syrian Kurdish National Council (ENKS) in the Kurdistan Region, acknowledged that while Sharaa enjoys broad international backing, Kurdish political actors were not consulted in the decision. Despite this, Ali emphasized that ENKS does not oppose his leadership, recognizing that his legitimacy stems from military factions that played a pivotal role in toppling the Assad regime.  

Sharaa’s diplomatic efforts have been swift, with recent engagements including a meeting with Qatar’s Emir and upcoming visits to Saudi Arabia and possibly Turkey. His growing recognition on the world stage suggests a solidifying leadership role in Syria’s transition.  

Although Kurdish representatives were not directly involved in Sharaa’s selection, Ali noted that discussions with international actors—including the US, France, and Germany—have consistently emphasized the need for Kurdish unity as a precondition for meaningful participation in Syria’s future. “The current phase is positive,” Ali stated. “The world is backing Kurdish unity and pressuring for guarantees on our rights.”  

Long-divided Kurdish factions in Syria are now closer than ever to reaching a consensus. A crucial meeting between the ENKS and the Democratic Union Party (PYD), mediated by the US, is expected to outline the framework for Kurdish representation in Syria’s transitional government.  

Ali highlighted the shifting influence of regional powers in post-Assad Syria. He asserted that Iran’s role is diminishing following the collapse of Assad’s regime, while Turkey remains a key player due to its ties with the ENKS and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The United States, Ali stressed, is the most reliable ally in ensuring Kurdish participation in Syria’s restructuring, while Russia, though not outright opposed to Kurdish aspirations, continues to exert influence over Syria’s political landscape.  

Meanwhile, the US-led coalition has significantly increased its military presence in Rojava (northeast Syria) amid persistent security threats. Throughout January 2025, military reinforcements were deployed via air and land, reinforcing US bases in Hasakah and Deir ez-Zor.  

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), 197 trucks carrying military and logistical supplies entered Syria from Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, while 22 cargo aircraft delivered weapons, troops, and infrastructure materials to key coalition bases.  

Throughout January, the coalition carried out live-fire exercises with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to enhance operational readiness. In parallel, US forces intensified counterterrorism efforts, targeting high-profile jihadist leaders, including Islamic State and Al-Qaeda-linked operatives. Despite these efforts, attacks on US bases have persisted, with coalition defenses intercepting armed drone strikes targeting the Kharab al-Jir base in Rmelan.  

Beyond counterterrorism, the continued US presence in Syria is deeply intertwined with geopolitical and economic interests. The coalition maintains control over strategic oil and gas fields, a key point of contention among regional actors.  

As Syria navigates its transitional phase, the future of Kurdish political participation and the role of international actors remain pivotal questions. The success of Kurdish unity talks and the international community’s commitment to an inclusive political framework will determine whether this transition leads to long-term stability or further fragmentation.

Learn the Truth Here ... لـێــــره‌ ڕاستی بـزانــــــه
Copyright ©2021 BasNews.com. All rights reserved