Mustafa al-Nuaimi to "Welat TV": US-Turkey Agreements Pave the Way for a New Era in Syria

Welat TV – Erbil

Political analyst Mustafa al-Nuaimi has revealed significant understandings between the United States and Turkey, in collaboration with the new Syrian government in Damascus, regarding the presence of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the mechanisms to address their future.

In an interview with "Welat TV" on Saturday, January 11, 2025, al-Nuaimi stated, "The upcoming phase will see the withdrawal of PKK fighters, but this will take more time than anticipated due to the complex international dynamics that now play a significant role in stabilizing Syria."

He noted Turkey's firm stance on removing forces linked to external agendas in Syria and highlighted the challenges posed by the PKK, which Turkey considers a terrorist organization.

Integration of SDF into the New Syrian Army

Al-Nuaimi emphasized the importance of overcoming Turkish concerns through joint cooperation among the US, Turkey, and Damascus. He predicted that resolving the issue of foreign fighters would allow the SDF to integrate into the new Ministry of Defense, forming part of Syria’s new national army. "The SDF as a military entity must be restructured under the central government," he said. "If it remains outside government control, military operations could escalate and expand in scope."

Tensions Near Tishreen Dam

While much of Syria enjoys calm following the regime's fall, fierce clashes persist near Qara Qozaq Bridge and Tishreen Dam between the SDF and factions of the Syrian National Army (SNA).

Al-Nuaimi attributed this to ongoing disputes over areas still outside central government control. He referred to recent remarks by SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi, signaling openness to dialogue with Damascus. Al-Nuaimi called for strategic understandings to prevent further internal conflict, often fueled by external interests.

Iran’s Role and Challenges in Syria

Al-Nuaimi warned of Iran's continued attempts to destabilize Syria through sectarian conflicts, citing examples like the thwarted attempt to bomb Sayyida Zainab Shrine in Damascus. He stressed the collective responsibility of Syrians to report any terrorist activities and highlighted the importance of international efforts to protect Syria's security. He accused Iran of exploiting extremist groups to further its regional agenda, referencing past incidents such as attacks in Samarra. "Iran’s plans involve igniting tensions under the guise of protecting sacred sites," he added.

The Future of Armed Groups in Syria

Al-Nuaimi affirmed that Syria's new Ministry of Defense is working to integrate all armed factions under its framework. He pointed out that international guarantees are essential to ensure the safe transition of fighters into the national army and to neutralize factional influences.

He concluded, "A unified national project encompassing all components of Syrian society is the only path to sustainable peace. The era of sectarian and factional divisions must end, as these have historically been tools for external manipulation and internal discord."