Landmark Decree Recognizes Kurdish Rights in Syria

Syria's President Ahmed al-Sharaa issued a decree recognizing Kurdish language and identity, restoring citizenship stripped since 1962. This follows clashes in Aleppo and signifies efforts to unify Syria, despite tension with Kurdish forces. The decree bans ethnic discrimination and sets plans to integrate Kurdish entities by 2025.

In a significant political shift, Syria's President Ahmed al-Sharaa has issued a decree acknowledging the rights of Kurdish Syrians, formally recognizing their language and restoring citizenship lost during a 1962 census. This historic announcement was reported by the state news agency SANA on Friday.

The decree follows recent violence in Aleppo, which resulted in the deaths of 23 people and the displacement of over 150,000 individuals from Kurdish areas. Kurdish fighters have since withdrawn, signifying an end to the hostilities in the northern city.

The move to recognize Kurdish identity within Syria's national framework includes designating Kurdish as a national language alongside Arabic, marking Nowruz as a national holiday, and abolishing ethnic discrimination. Despite these advancements, the integration of Kurdish-run entities into the Syrian state system remains a work in progress. Talks between the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces continue to face challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)