Al-HASAKAH, northeastern Syria – Senior Kurdish sources on Tuesday denied reports that Mazloum Abdi, commander of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), had been appointed as Syria’s deputy defense minister. The sources also refuted claims that SDF fighters and officers were being integrated into the Syrian army’s ranks.
Discussions over the potential merger of SDF forces with the Syrian military remain ongoing, according to high-ranking officials within the group. “The issue has not been settled yet and is still under negotiation between specialized committees from both sides,” a senior SDF source told +963, adding that any agreement must account for the political and military considerations of both parties.
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Similarly, Syrian government sources told +963 that the army had not yet deployed troops into SDF-controlled areas. However, joint committees from Damascus and the SDF are set to begin discussions later this month on potential security and military coordination.
Recent media reports suggested that Abdi was being considered for a high-ranking military post, either as deputy chief of staff for northern Syria or as the head of a newly established military division comprising integrated SDF units. Some reports even claimed he was set to assume the role of deputy defense minister to facilitate the SDF’s incorporation into state institutions.
However, sources speaking to +963 dismissed these claims, emphasizing that no official decisions had been made, and that any potential agreement would require extensive political, military, and organizational negotiations.
In a previous interview, Abdi reaffirmed that the SDF does not seek independence from Syria but rather aims to be integrated into the country’s defense structure while maintaining operational autonomy. Abdi affirmed that he is open to discussions about SDF becoming part of the Syrian Defense Ministry, but under a framework that preserves the uniqueness of their forces.
Read also: Syrian Government Committee Delegation Meet SDF Representatives in Northeastern Syria
On March 10, Abdi and Syrian transitional government head Ahmed al-Sharaa signed an eight-point agreement in Damascus outlining steps toward integrating military and civil institutions in northern and eastern Syria into state structures. The agreement covered key areas, including control over Qamishli airport, oil and gas fields, and border crossings. It also included provisions on ceasefire commitments and securing the return of displaced persons.
The accord emphasized the need to constitutionally recognize Kurdish identity and ensure broader political representation for all Syrians. The final clause stipulated that implementation of the agreement should be completed by the end of the year.
