In Syria’s Hasakah, Calls for Ceasefire and Inclusive Dialogue Dominate Political Forum
By Kardo Roj
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Political and community leaders in northeast Syria have intensified calls for a comprehensive ceasefire across the country and inclusive participation in shaping Syria’s future. The discussions follow the collapse of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024, which has left the nation in a state of ongoing military conflict and uncertainty.
At a recent forum held by the Syrian Homeland Party in Hasakah, key stakeholders from diverse societal segments debated the country’s current trajectory. Despite new leadership in Damascus, ongoing hostilities—especially attacks by Turkish-backed factions on areas controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)—continue to fuel apprehension about Syria’s future.
“The Sound of Gunfire” Persists
Abdulaziz Dawood, Deputy Secretary-General of the Syrian Democratic Opposition Front, emphasized the prevailing uncertainty among Syrians. Speaking to North Press on the sidelines of the forum, Dawood said, “The sound of gunfire and acts of vengeance persist, causing fear and contradicting the aspirations of the Syrian people.”
He pointed to ongoing clashes in northern Syria, particularly Turkish-backed offensives in Kobani and the Tishreen Dam area in Aleppo’s northern countryside, despite prior security agreements and U.S. mediation efforts with Turkey.
Dawood proposed the formation of a transitional council involving all Syrian factions, modeled after the 1919 council that established the Syrian state. “Such a council could lay the groundwork for a national conference, presenting a roadmap for the nation’s future while ensuring no single entity dominates the process,” he explained.
A Sensitive Period
Maijd Al-Arad, a prominent tribal leader of the Al-Ashraf clan, described the current period as extremely delicate. He criticized the lack of a comprehensive ceasefire and the absence of international guarantees to stabilize the situation.
“Since the fall of the Assad regime, the future remains unclear. Despite promises from Damascus to convene a national conference and establish legislative and constitutional committees, meaningful progress is lacking,” Al-Arad said.
He highlighted the suffering of Syrians, exacerbated by 50 years of authoritarian rule and the ongoing conflict. “The killer and the killed are all our people. We must focus on reconciliation and unity,” he urged.
Al-Arad also noted the efforts of tribal leaders to foster awareness and dialogue aimed at building a unified Syria. “A broader, inclusive discussion that addresses the needs of all Syrians is crucial,” he added.
Empowering Marginalized Groups
One of the forum’s focal points was the role of women and minorities in post-conflict Syria. Arif Kasbiyan, an administrator with the Armenian Social Council in northeast Syria, stressed that the marginalization of women and minorities amounts to “a form of extermination.”
“Excluding women from political and social institutions weakens the nation. Women’s perspectives are vital across all domains of life,” Kasbiyan told North Press.
She called for greater representation of women in decision-making processes, highlighting that forums like the one in Hasakah pave the way for a more inclusive national conference. “By considering the views of all components and political parties, we can ensure no group is left out,” she said.
Path Forward
The forum concluded with calls for immediate action to stabilize the country. Key demands included halting all military operations, forming a transitional governing body, and prioritizing the participation of women and minorities in rebuilding efforts.
Despite ongoing challenges, participants expressed cautious optimism about fostering dialogue and cooperation to achieve lasting peace and unity in Syria.