23/10/2024

Nadine Maenza meets with Northern Democratic Brigade Commander Abu Omar al-Idlibi to discuss security and humanitarian issues in North and East Syria

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — During her ongoing visit to North and East Syria, Nadine Maenza, Global Fellow at the Wilson Center and President of the International Religious Freedom Secretariat (IRF), visited the headquarters of the Northern Democratic Brigade, an ally of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Maenza met with the Northern Democratic Brigade’s Commander, Absi al-Taha, also known by his nom de guerre Abu Omar al-Idlibi. Al-Idlibi shared that the meeting was productive, addressing key issues related to security and stability in the region.

Discussions focused on ways to support the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) in navigating ongoing challenges, particularly after the recent bombings in vital civilian infrastructure. They also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Edleb (Idlib), where the Turkish-allied extremist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) are in control, exacerbating the suffering of the local population.

Al-Idlibi emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to this crisis and the importance of providing necessary assistance to those affected.

He concluded that continued dialogue on these matters is essential for promoting human rights and ensuring peace in the region.