HTS leader al-Shara confirms negotiations with Syrian Democratic Forces as Syria steps toward a unified Syrian Army

DARAMSUQ — Ahmed al-Shara, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), announced ongoing negotiations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) aimed at resolving what he referred to as “the crisis in North and East Syria.” He emphasized that the envisioned future Syrian Army seeks to integrate Kurdish forces as part of a unified national structure.

In an interview with Al-Arabiya, al-Shara firmly rejected the notion of dividing Syria or adopting a federalist model. He stressed that Kurds are an essential component of the Syrian nation and affirmed their inclusion in the Syrian Army. While acknowledging the complexity of organizing elections, al-Shara estimated that achieving this goal could take several years.

He asserted that HTS’s role in governing Syria would ensure regional stability, particularly for Syria and the Gulf, over the next five decades. Al-Shara also expressed HTS’s willingness to dissolve during a proposed National Dialogue Conference that would involve all societal groups. He affirmed the right of citizens to demonstrate peacefully as an expression of their opinions.

Addressing international relations, Al-Shara called on the incoming US administration to lift economic sanctions on Syria and urged Iran to reconsider its interventions in the region. He anticipated a more constructive stance from Tehran in the future.

Karim Qamar, representative of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria’s (DAARNES) in France, responded positively to Al-Shara’s statements. Qamar highlighted DAARNES readiness to engage in Syrian–Syrian dialogue and to collaborate with HTS. He noted that the SDF could form the foundation of a new Syrian Army, expressing optimism about reaching an agreement free of external influence.

DAARNES reiterated its commitment to fostering unity among Syria’s diverse communities to navigate the transitional period. It stressed the importance of drafting a shared roadmap to rebuild Syria while avoiding the policies of marginalization that had previously led to destruction.