Mazloum Abdi: Kurdish Unity Strengthens Syria’s Integrity, Not Division
By Kardo Roj
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – General Mazloum Abdi, Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), emphasized on Saturday that the Kurdish Unity Conference held in Qamishli aims to reinforce — not divide — Syria’s territorial integrity, reaffirming the SDF’s commitment to a unified and democratic Syrian state.
Speaking before hundreds of participants from various Kurdish political factions, civil society organizations, and independent figures, Abdi stressed that strengthening Kurdish political cohesion would ultimately bolster Syria as a whole.
“This conference was not held to divide Syria, as some have claimed — quite the opposite,” Abdi said in a speech broadcast after the event. “The strength of the Kurdish people means the strength of Syria.”
A Reaffirmation of Commitment to Syrian Unity
General Abdi addressed the broader Syrian public and the Damascus government, dispelling any misconceptions about the purpose of the conference. He reiterated that the Kurdish political movement’s aspirations are intrinsically linked to the stability and unity of Syria, not separatism.
“We reaffirm our commitment to the unity of Syria,” he declared, underlining that the Kurdish community’s efforts toward internal cohesion would contribute to the nation’s overall resilience amid ongoing political and military challenges.
Organized in Qamishli, the conference brought together more than 400 Kurdish figures, including political leaders, intellectuals, and tribal representatives. It represents a continuation of long-standing initiatives aimed at overcoming internal divisions and creating a unified Kurdish political voice.
Acknowledging Regional Support for Kurdish Unity
In his address, Abdi also recognized the contributions of regional Kurdish leaders and organizations toward fostering intra-Kurdish reconciliation. He extended special thanks to Masoud Barzani, the prominent Kurdish leader in Iraq, and praised the roles played by the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK), as well as Nechirvan Barzani and Bafel Talabani, in supporting Kurdish unity initiatives.
“This conference is the result of long-term efforts and initiatives aimed at unifying the Kurdish parties in Syria,” Abdi noted, pointing out that several meetings and agreements had laid the groundwork for the event.
The acknowledgment of broader Kurdish solidarity reflects a strategic approach by the SDF and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) to strengthen regional support while maintaining a focus on Syrian national unity.
Regional Stability and the Role of the SDF
The SDF, a key partner in the international coalition against the Islamic State (ISIS), continues to play a critical role in maintaining stability across northeast Syria. Areas under AANES governance remain relatively secure compared to regions plagued by ongoing clashes between rival factions elsewhere in the country.
By promoting internal Kurdish unity, the SDF aims to reinforce the political foundations necessary to address Syria’s broader crises through dialogue and democratic reform, rather than armed confrontation.
Observers note that while the Kurdish unity initiative is primarily a domestic Syrian effort, it carries wider regional and international implications, particularly regarding post-conflict governance models that emphasize decentralization, pluralism, and human rights.
Looking Ahead: Toward Inclusive Solutions
General Abdi’s remarks also carried a forward-looking message, calling for stronger cooperation among all Syrian communities to face common challenges. His vision advocates a political framework where the resolution of the Kurdish issue contributes to national reconciliation rather than sectarian fragmentation.
Failure to address the legitimate rights of the Kurdish people, he warned, would hinder any prospects for sustainable peace, democracy, and justice in Syria’s future.
As Syria continues to navigate a complex web of geopolitical shifts and internal dynamics, initiatives like the Kurdish Unity Conference signal a persistent effort by AANES and the SDF to chart a path toward a stable, democratic, and inclusive political solution for the country.