Iraq backs SDF integration into Syrian state institutions
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Iraq on Friday welcomed the outcomes of talks between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian transitional government, including a decision to integrate the SDF into Syrian state institutions.
In a statement, Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the integration of the SDF into the Syrian state as a step toward unifying the country’s armed forces.
The ministry said the development, along with other measures taken in this regard, represents an important step toward strengthening Syria’s stability and sovereignty.
It added that the agreement could contribute to broader participation in governance and help fulfill the Syrian people’s aspirations for security, peace and stability.
Baghdad reaffirmed its support for efforts aimed at preserving Syria’s unity, sovereignty and stability, emphasizing that Syrian state institutions should serve as a unifying framework for all components of the Syrian people.
The statement comes amid efforts to implement an agreement between the SDF and the Syrian transitional government aimed at integrating military and civilian institutions in northeastern Syria into the state structure.
The SDF, a Kurdish-led force that has played a central role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria, has maintained control over large parts of northeastern Syria for years.
The integration process is expected to have significant implications for Syria’s political and security landscape, particularly regarding the status of Kurdish-majority areas and the future of local administrative and security institutions.
Iraq shares a long border with Syria and has closely followed developments in northeastern Syria, where instability and the presence of ISIS cells remain security concerns for Baghdad.