Mazloum Abdî, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has expressed concern about the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, warning that its consequences could have a profound impact on Syria and the wider region. He called for renewed dialogue, stressing that military escalation offers no path to lasting peace.
In an interview published on 19 June by Yeni Özgür Politika, Abdî emphasised that the conflict poses a direct threat to Syria’s fragile stability, urging a political resolution free from external interference.
Abdî noted that the situation in Syria has become intertwined with regional and international dynamics. Although the SDF engages in dialogue with international actors, including the United States, due to their joint efforts against ISIS, Abdî stated that the resolution of Syria’s crisis hinges on internal dialogue and mutual agreement with the Damascus government. The future of Syria, he asserted, must be shaped by Syrians themselves.
Turning to Syria’s internal structure, Abdî said that, over the past 14 years, North and East Syria had developed a governance model based on coexistence, unity and inclusivity. Despite remaining challenges, he argued that this system provides a basis for multi-ethnic cooperation and should be recognised in Syria’s new constitution, with provisions for federalism, women’s rights, and minority rights. He added that, in talks with Damascus, he emphasised the need to safeguard these achievements and extend their benefits nationwide.
Highlighting the situation of minority communities such as Druze and Arab Alawites, he called for their inclusion in the new constitutional order. He said that all communities must be granted equal rights under a democratic framework.
Abdî described the Rojava Unity and Common Position Conference, held on 26 April, as a milestone for Kurdish political unity. Bringing together representatives from all parts of Kurdistan, the conference resulted in the formation of a delegation comprising all Kurdish parties in Syria to initiate dialogue with Damascus. The aim is to advance Kurdish unity and promote democratic reform.
Addressing the issue of displacement, Abdî stressed the need for constitutional guarantees to ensure the safe and voluntary return of displaced people to Afrin, Girê Spî, and Serêkaniyê. He said that Turkish-backed groups in these occupied areas continue to commit abuses and must be withdrawn to allow residents to return and reclaim their property. Abdî announced that committees had been formed to address security and restitution in that matter, with further steps to follow on governance.
Regarding integration into Syria’s central military structure, Abdî confirmed that discussions are ongoing with Damascus about the role of the SDF in Syria’s future army. He said that the 10 March agreement had paved the way for military coordination and joint committees. He noted that the SDF’s contribution to fighting ISIS must be recognised and that any integration must preserve its institutional structure.
With regard to women’s rights, Abdî stated that North and East Syria is notable for its commitment to women’s leadership in politics, the military and society. He echoed the concerns of women under the new Damascus administration, describing those concerns as reasonable. He urged the implementation of robust constitutional protections, underlining that hard-won rights are not to be reversed. He said that women’s leadership is central to rebuilding Syria, and that the SDF’s negotiation committees are set up accordingly. Put simply, “Syria cannot be rebuilt without women.”
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Regarding the prospect of dialogue with the imprisoned Kurdish leader, Abdullah Öcalan, Abdî responded that such a meeting would be “an honour and a source of joy”, suggesting that it could meaningfully contribute to the resolution of the Kurdish issue in all regions of Kurdistan.
Abdî also drew attention to the importance of Öcalan’s 27 February “Call for Peace and a Democratic Society”, pointing out that Öcalan’s proposals had helped to restore peace and stability to Rojava and North and East Syria. Noting that some communication with Turkey continues, Abdî urged for a lasting ceasefire, emphasising that any resolution must address issues that are interconnected across all parts of Kurdistan.
“We are at a historic stage. The Middle East is undergoing profound changes, and Kurds must seize this opportunity to secure their rightful place through unity, recognition, and democratic struggle,” Abdî remarked.
