Syria’s new defence minister, Murhaf Abu Qasra, has rejected the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces’ (SDF) proposal for a separate military bloc within the country’s unified armed forces. The SDF, which controls a semi-autonomous zone in the northeast, had sought to maintain its own military structure as part of integration talks with the new government.
Abu Qasra stated that this would not be acceptable, as it could create divisions within the Defence Ministry. He emphasized that the SDF should integrate into the Defence Ministry, but not retain a separate bloc. The proposal is a key issue in integrating Syria’s various armed groups under a unified command structure, which Abu Qasra prioritized since taking office.
The US supports the SDF as an ally against ISIS, while Turkiye views it as a national security threat linked to the PKK. Abu Qasra acknowledged meeting with SDF leaders and accused them of “procrastinating” in talks over integration. He aims to complete the integration process by March 1, when the transitional government’s time in power ends.
The decision has sparked criticism, including concerns about appointing foreigners to high-ranking military positions. However, Abu Qasra defended his actions, citing security issues that prompt immediate action.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/19/syria-defence-minister-rejects-kurdish-led-sdf-proposal-own-military-bloc