Barrack says SDF integration to shape united Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack said on Tuesday that the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syrian state institutions could help build a unified national framework, while emphasizing recognition of Kurdish language education and roles for Kurdish leaders in the government.
In a post on X, Barrack said President Donald Trump’s Middle East plan had created a path for the SDF’s “orderly integration” into Syrian state institutions.
He described the process as a way to transform what he called past divisions into a “lasting partnership” and give Syrians an opportunity to shape their common future.
Barrack added that Washington recognized the importance of Kurdish language education and securing substantive roles in the Syrian government for SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi and AANES Foreign Relations Department Head Ilham Ahmad.
He said such steps would recognize their leadership and the sacrifices of Kurdish partners, as well as their contribution to regional stability.
“This is what real integration looks like: not winners and losers,” Barrack said, describing the process as a diplomatic solution involving former counterparts with differing views.
The comments come as Damascus and the SDF continue discussions over implementing an agreement signed in January 2026 that calls for integrating the SDF and civilian institutions in northeastern Syria into the Syrian state.
The agreement also envisages recognizing the rights of all Syrians and incorporating northeastern Syria’s institutions into the state framework.
The future of Kurdish cultural and political rights, the structure of SDF integration and the distribution of administrative and security responsibilities remain key issues in negotiations between the two sides.
Barrack concluded his statement by emphasizing the goal of a unified Syrian state, saying: “One army, one government, one state.”