French delegation visits North and East Syria to discuss ISIS threat

ZALIN, North and East Syria — A French delegation recently visited the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) to engage in discussions over shared concerns and the issue of Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists detained by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The delegation, led by Matthieu Bagard, head of the French non-governmental organization Lawyers Without Borders, along with Marie Dawes, Laurent Lopez, and Martin Robin of the French United Families Association, focused on key matters during their meeting with Co-Chairs of the DAARNES’s Foreign Relations Commission Badran Jia Kurd and Samar al-Abdullah, Deputy Co-Chair Rubel Bahho, and Administrative Body member Khaled Ibrahim.

Discussions centered on the DAARNES approach to a political solution in Syria, counterterrorism efforts, and the security challenges confronting the region. Jia Kurd commended the strong ties between the DAARNES and France, emphasizing their shared commitment to combatting terrorism.

Highlighting the ongoing Turkish threats to the region, particularly targeting civilians and infrastructure, Jia Kurd underscored the urgent need for international attention and action. He warned that Turkey’s actions serve as a catalyst for ISIS resurgence, endangering the stability of the region and beyond.

Addressing the issue of trials for ISIS members in SDF custody, Jia Kurd urged the international community to provide support for fair and just legal proceedings, stressing the gravity of the situation and its global implications. Bagard echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of international support for the administration’s pursuit of justice and equality.

Following their discussions, the delegation visited the Awda Oil Field in the Qabre Hewore, witnessing firsthand the devastation caused by Turkish bombings. Expressing solidarity with the people of North and East Syria, the delegation called on France and other nations to provide assistance and support to address the region’s challenges.