Peregraf
The United States has welcomed the January 16 meeting between Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) President Masoud Barzani and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander General Mazloum Abdi, emphasizing the importance of intra-Kurdish dialogue for Syria’s political transition. The State Department’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs stated on X (formerly Twitter): “The United States welcomed the January 16 meeting between Kurdistan Democratic Party President Masoud Barzani and Syrian Democratic Forces Commander General Mazloum Abdi. Intra-Kurdish dialogue can play a critical role in bolstering an inclusive political transition in Syria.”
Focus on Unity and Peaceful Negotiations
The meeting, held in Salahaddin, Erbil, centered on strengthening Kurdish unity and peaceful negotiations with Damascus. In a statement following the meeting, Mazloum Abdi highlighted the discussions’ focus on safeguarding Kurdish rights and fostering regional peace. “We emphasized Kurdish unity in Syria, and the negotiations with Damascus must protect the rights of the Kurdish people in a peaceful manner,” Abdi said. He also reiterated that maintaining unity and peace is a collective responsibility requiring cooperation among Kurdish leaders.
A statement from Barzani’s office reinforced the need for Kurdish factions to pursue their rights through dialogue and peaceful means. Both leaders stressed that unity is key to addressing political and security challenges in Syria and ensuring a constructive Kurdish role in shaping the country’s future.
A Step Toward Strengthening Kurdish Position
Hoshyar Zebari, a senior KDP leader, described the meeting as pivotal for bolstering Kurdish unity. In a post on X, Zebari wrote: “Today’s meeting in Erbil between President Masoud Barzani and SDF Commander of N.E. Syria is a significant achievement to strengthen Kurdish unity and position vis-a-vis the new Syrian rulers in Damascus for a smooth political transition.”
The meeting is part of Barzani’s ongoing efforts to unify Kurdish factions in Syria. Earlier this month, he met with representatives of the Syrian Kurdish National Council (ENKS) to mediate disputes and advocate for peaceful solutions.
Context and Challenges
The meeting comes at a critical juncture as Kurdish-majority regions in Syria navigate both opportunities for autonomy and threats of division. Ongoing ideological differences among Kurdish groups and external pressures, especially from Turkey, complicate efforts to present a united front.
Earlier discussions between Abdi and Hamid Darbandi, Barzani’s representative, on January 13, laid the groundwork for this latest dialogue. Both leaders aim to consolidate Kurdish factions in preparation for potential political changes in Syria.
A Turning Point for Syrian Kurds
As Syria moves closer to a potential post-Assad era, Kurdish leaders face growing pressure to unify. A cohesive Kurdish bloc could strengthen demands for federalism, minority rights, and autonomy. In contrast, disunity risks undermining Kurdish aspirations and leaving them marginalized in negotiations.
The Barzani-Abdi meeting marks a significant step toward bridging divides and fostering collaboration among Kurdish groups. However, substantial challenges remain, and Kurdish leaders will need sustained efforts to ensure their voices are heard in shaping Syria’s future.