Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) leader Masoud Barzani and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander Mazloum Abdi held a landmark meeting in Erbil to address Kurdish unity and the evolving situation in Syria. The discussions emphasized uniting Kurdish parties to secure their rights peacefully, free from external interference, and fostering stability in Syria. The meeting, facilitated by U.S. support, comes as Syria navigates a transitional phase following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Barzani-Abdi Meeting Highlights Kurdish Solidarity
The meeting, held in Erbil’s Pirmam district, focused on fostering Kurdish unity and responding to the evolving political and security landscape in Syria. Barzani’s office stated that Kurdish parties must align to safeguard their rights and ensure peace in the region. Both leaders emphasized that Syrian Kurds should determine their future without external interference, aiming for a collaborative approach with the new Syrian leadership.
The meeting was supported by the U.S., which facilitated Abdi’s travel via helicopter. This collaboration reflects the critical role international allies play in advancing Kurdish cooperation. Observers highlighted the significance of the meeting, with former U.S. coalition spokesperson Myles Caggins calling it a “significant development” for Kurdish solidarity.
Reviving the 2015 Duhok Agreement
Barzani has been instrumental in uniting Kurdish factions, including efforts to revive the 2015 Duhok Agreement, a historic accord aimed at resolving tensions between the Democratic Union Party (PYD) and the Kurdish National Council (ENKS). Despite its collapse, ongoing efforts to reconcile these parties underscore the enduring commitment to Kurdish solidarity.
Abdi’s visit also follows Barzani’s outreach to Rojava, where his representative met with the ENKS and Abdi to discuss unification efforts. This aligns with broader efforts to bridge divides among Syrian Kurdish factions, a necessity for advancing Kurdish rights and stability in the region.
Kurdish Leaders and Allies React to the Meeting
The meeting sparked widespread reactions among Kurdish leaders and international allies. Veteran Kurdish politicians Osman Baydemir and Leyla Zana praised the gathering, expressing hope for lasting unity among Kurds. Kurdish lawmaker Omer Ocalan called for collective action to benefit the region’s stability and democracy.
International voices also welcomed the development. Walid Phares, a former advisor to President Trump, highlighted the benefits of transnational Kurdish cooperation for regional peace and prosperity. The meeting further emphasized the strategic importance of unity as Syria undergoes a transitional phase, particularly after the fall of the Assad regime in December.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The path toward Kurdish unity remains complex, with historical tensions and unfulfilled agreements posing challenges. However, the Barzani-Abdi meeting has reignited hopes for reconciliation and collective action among Kurdish factions. Observers see this as a critical moment to advance Kurdish rights, stability, and political representation in Syria’s evolving landscape.
Efforts to resume stalled talks, strengthen alliances, and prioritize peaceful negotiations reflect the leaders’ determination to prevent further suffering for Kurds and other communities in Syria. As Barzani and Abdi’s collaboration gains momentum, the prospects for a unified Kurdish front appear more promising than ever.
