Kurdish Unity Talks Resume in Syria’s Hasakah Amid Regional Tensions
By Kardo Roj
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – The Democratic Union Party (PYD) and the Kurdish National Council (ENKS) convened in Hasakah on Tuesday to discuss strengthening Kurdish political unity in Syria. The meeting, attended by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander Mazloum Abdi, aimed to address longstanding disputes between the two factions and explore avenues for cooperation.
A senior official from the Kurdish National Unity Parties, a coalition that includes the PYD, told North Press that the meeting was held at the request of ENKS to resolve outstanding issues hindering Kurdish political reconciliation.
The talks come as part of a broader initiative launched by Mazloum Abdi in late 2019 to foster dialogue between Kurdish factions under U.S. mediation. Despite previous efforts, tensions have persisted over governance, security arrangements, and political representation in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
Sources familiar with the meeting said discussions focused on political guarantees for ENKS members within AANES institutions, the reopening of offices closed due to past disputes, and the status of detained ENKS-affiliated individuals. While no immediate breakthroughs were announced, both sides agreed to continue dialogue in the coming weeks.
In a separate statement, Nasraddin Ibrahim, a member of the preparatory committee for the upcoming Kurdish National Conference, confirmed that the long-anticipated meeting will take place on March 20. “We hope this conference will serve as a major step toward unity, bringing good news to the Kurdish people ahead of Nowruz celebrations,” he said.
The meeting in Hasakah takes place against the backdrop of ongoing security threats in northeast Syria. The SDF, which plays a key role in counterterrorism operations, has been engaged in efforts to stabilize the region amid increased activity by Islamic State (ISIS) sleeper cells. Meanwhile, tensions with Turkey-backed armed factions in northern Syria remain high, further complicating Kurdish political cohesion.
The Kurdish political divide has long been a point of contention in Syria’s broader conflict. While the PYD and its allies exercise significant influence over the AANES, the ENKS has maintained ties with the Syrian opposition and Turkey, complicating reconciliation efforts. However, with regional shifts and increasing international focus on AANES governance, renewed efforts for unity could reshape the Kurdish political landscape.
Despite persistent challenges, the latest round of discussions suggests a willingness to overcome divisions. Observers note that achieving a unified Kurdish political front could enhance the legitimacy of AANES on the international stage and strengthen its ability to negotiate with both the Syrian government and external actors.
Further meetings are expected in the coming weeks, with sources indicating that U.S. officials may continue to facilitate dialogue between the parties. As security dynamics evolve and regional alliances shift, Kurdish unity remains a critical factor in shaping the future of northeast Syria.