Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa has appointed Mazloum Abdi, the former commander of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as an adviser to the presidency. The decision comes shortly after the SDF announced that it would dissolve and integrate its forces into Syria’s national army. This appointment is an important step in the Syrian government’s effort to bring different armed groups under the control of the central government and strengthen national unity.
For several years, the SDF controlled large areas of northeastern Syria and played an important role in fighting the Islamic State group. However, its relationship with the Syrian government has been complicated. In March 2025, Al-Sharaa and Abdi reached an agreement for the SDF to integrate into state institutions, but the process moved slowly and tensions later led to fighting between the two sides. After several clashes, the Syrian government regained control of important areas, including Raqqa and Deir Az Zor. A ceasefire was eventually reached, allowing negotiations about the integration of Kurdish forces into the Ministries of Defence and Interior to continue.
Abdi’s new position is significant because he had previously been considered for more powerful roles. Earlier this year, the Syrian president proposed that he become deputy defence minister and governor of Hasakah. Instead, Abdi was appointed as a presidential adviser, giving him a role in the government while avoiding giving him direct control over a major military or political institution.
The Syrian government has also taken steps toward recognizing Kurdish rights. In January, Al-Sharaa recognized Kurdish as a national language and restored citizenship to Syrian Kurds who had previously lost it. These measures were considered important because Kurdish identity and rights had faced restrictions for many years.
The dissolution of the SDF also strengthens the Syrian central government. The group had been one of the main military forces operating outside Damascus’s direct control. Its integration into the national army means that the government can claim greater authority over most of Syria. However, some challenges remain, including the future of the Kurdish Women’s Protection Units, known as the YPJ, which have sought integration into the Ministry of Defence.
Overall, Mazloum Abdi’s appointment represents an important development in Syria’s efforts to reduce divisions and strengthen the authority of the central government. The integration of Kurdish forces and the recognition of Kurdish rights could help reduce tensions between different communities. However, the process is still complicated, and the Syrian government will need to continue negotiating with Kurdish leaders to achieve a stable and lasting agreement.
Al Jazeera. (2026, 27 de agosto). Syria’s president appoints ex-commander of Kurdish-led SDF as advisor. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/8/27/syrias-president-appoints-ex-commander-of-kurdish-led-sdf-as-advisor