Al-Sharaa highlights plans for national conference, Kurdish integration
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) discussed on Sunday plans for a national conference and a comprehensive census aimed at restructuring Syria.
Al-Sharaa highlighted ongoing negotiations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), confirming that the future Syrian army will integrate Kurdish forces.
In an interview with al-Hadath news channel, al-Sharaa stated that organizing elections could take years but emphasized that Syria’s liberation guarantees long-term regional stability. He credited the collective efforts of all who resisted Bashar al-Assad’s regime for the country’s progress.
He expressed HTS’ readiness to dissolve during a national dialogue that includes all societal components and reiterated citizens’ right to protest. While acknowledging that Idlib’s governance model is not universally applicable, he described it as a foundation for broader reforms.
Al-Sharaa assured that current appointments are provisional, designed to align with transitional needs, and revealed plans for an interim government.
He estimated that it will take a year to notice improvements in public services, stressing unity and rejecting any form of division or federation for Syria.
He also indicated that the current Syrian administration is negotiating with the SDF to resolve the crisis in northeastern Syria, asserting that the Kurds are an integral part of the Syrian components and that the Kurdish forces will be present in the Syrian army.
He praised recent Saudi statements supporting Syria’s stability and identified significant investment opportunities from Riyadh. Calling for the U.S. to lift economic sanctions, he expressed hopes for a shift in policy under the new administration.
Addressing regional dynamics, al-Sharaa urged Iran to reconsider its involvement in Syria, advocating for alignment with the Syrian people’s interests. He mentioned that legal committees would explore compensation claims and emphasized managing Russia’s withdrawal respectfully to preserve its relationship with Syria.