Unlocking the Path to Enduring Peace in Syria

In a recent meeting at the People’s Palace in Damascus, several journalists and scholars gathered for a discussion with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The dialogue, which spanned over two hours, covered various topics, including sectarian conflict, international relations, and the political future of the region. However, the primary concern was the country’s peace and stability after the removal of Bashar al-Assad.

Key Questions for Lasting Peace in Syria

The critical question for Syria has shifted. Instead of focusing on who controls Damascus, attention is now on how power is distributed beyond the capital. Recent clashes between government forces and Kurdish-led groups in Aleppo highlighted the fragile peace.

The Kurdish Position

• Kurdish forces have been pivotal in advocating decentralization and broader representation in Syria’s governance.
• The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) recently agreed to integrate into Syrian state structures, with March 10 marking a pivotal framework agreement.
• They celebrated cultural events such as Nowruz in Damascus, a significant cultural milestone.

Challenges and Opportunities

The path to peace is fraught with challenges. Turkey views a Kurdish-led governance in northeast Syria as a threat, implying potential military action if integration delays continue. Damascus has proposed using Assad-era Law 107 as a framework for decentralization, promising significant self-governance for the Kurds.

Negotiation Dynamics

Negotiations face internal and external hurdles. Damascus insists on rebranding and retraining the SDF. Cultural concessions remain limited, causing strain. Turkey and the U.S. urge compliance with timelines to avoid military interventions.

Political Climate and International Influence

Reports suggest international players like Israel and the UAE anticipate political changes in Syria. Criticisms within Syria’s Sunni base call for a more inclusive government and constitutional reforms, impacting negotiation dynamics.

The SDF’s Choices

• There’s pressure on the SDF to decide between reintegration with Syrian forces or risking renewed conflict.
• A steady transition could help prevent ethnic tensions, tribal mobilization, and potential insurgencies in Eastern Syria.

Overall, the road to enduring peace in Syria requires collaborative efforts, strategic flexibility, and decisive action from all parties involved. The hope is to avoid further bloodshed and ensure a stable future for all Syrians.