SDF signs agreement with Damascus aiming for autonomy and security in Syria

In Syria, the complexities of post-Assad governance are increasingly apparent with Ahmed al-Sharaa's interim government controlling approximately 70% of the territory. Concurrently, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) maintain control over 25-30%, alongside a significant military presence. This division prompts urgent discussions on the direction Syria is heading, particularly regarding governance styles. Ahmed al-Sharaa’s governance model represents a hybrid ideology, integrating SDF fighters into his military in an effort to bolster strength against a backdrop of limited resources. The SDF has been crucial, operating about 100,000 fighters and managing the country’s oil infrastructure following a notable drop in production levels stemming from the civil war. The integration agreement in March 2025 illustrates SDF's intent to uphold its decentralized governance model while seeking autonomy rather than full federalism. This push for local decision-making emphasizes the SDF’s commitment to avoid central control from Damascus, which further complicates Syria's political landscape. The Druze community has also shown signs of pursuing autonomy, aligning with Israel for protection, representing a broader trend of minority groups asserting their rights and looking for external support. These movements have consequences; they threaten Syria's unity, leading to fears of fragmentation as various groups vie for power and autonomy. The calls for security guarantees resonate through Alawite and Christian communities as well, highlighting an overarching theme of insecurity across all minority populations in the face of ongoing violence. Meanwhile, international powers have vested interests in the region—Turkey views the SDF as a part of a broader PKK threat, while Russia estimates the pragmatism of supporting stable governments in national reconstruction efforts, having already invested billions into maintaining the Assad regime. China also identifies the reconstruction of a war-torn Syria as a substantial opportunity through its Belt and Road Initiative, promoting engagement with a variety of factions while pursuing economic interests. The plight of 23 million Syrians continues to be overshadowed by these political machinations, as they remain largely excluded from considerations of their own welfare amid the broader strategic interests at play.