Syrian Forces Reassert Control in Qamishli: A New Era of Unity

Syrian government forces entered Qamishli, re-establishing central control over Kurdish regions through a U.S.-backed deal. The agreement aims to integrate Kurdish fighters with Damascus forces, fostering national unity after Syria's civil war. While the move is welcomed by many, some local tensions persist, particularly in Hasakah.

On Tuesday, Syrian government security forces made a significant advance into Qamishli, a city under Kurdish control in northeastern Syria. This action came as part of a U.S.-endorsed agreement, reinstating central government's authority over Kurdish-ruled territories.

The deal, initially announced on Friday, averted potential conflict between President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, who had previously lost extensive areas in eastern and northern Syria to government troops. Interior Ministry vehicles had already arrived in Hasakah, located 80 km to the south of Qamishli, on Monday.

Despite the accord, tensions still simmer in several regions, notably in Hasakah, where conflicts broke out between SDF forces and local Arabs. Arab residents claim marginalization under Kurdish rule, asserting grievances dismissed by the Kurdish leadership. The move to reintegrate Syrian forces lays the groundwork for future reconciliation.

(With inputs from agencies.)