PKK/YPG's controversial nominees, continued attacks raise doubts over Syria integration deal

2026-02-02 - 10:15

The implementation of the integration agreement between the Syrian government and the YPG-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is facing severe challenges, with security sources reporting that the PKK/YPG is deliberately undermining the process. Despite the expected start of integration, the ceasefire remains extremely fragile, and the group’s recent actions appear aimed at sabotage rather than compliance. Provocative Nominees for Key Posts According to security sources, the PKK/YPG has submitted candidates for senior Syrian government positions who have deep ties to the PKK’s leadership in Qandil and a history of armed actions against the Turkish military and the Syrian National Army. For the role of Deputy Defense Minister, the group nominated Bedran Çiyakurd, a known figure close to PKK senior leader Cemil Bayık, and Azad Simi (alias Çiya Kobani), who is accused of planning major attacks in Turkey, including the 2007 Dağlıca ambush that killed dozens of soldiers. For the governorship of Hasakah, the group proposed Nureddin İsa (Abu Omar Hanika), former head of the notorious Alaya Prison in Qamishli and a long-time militant against Turkish and Syrian state forces. Continued Aggression on the Ground Despite the agreement, PKK/YPG elements continue provocations, including an attempted attack on Syrian army positions yesterday, which was not reported in the media as there were no casualties. The group has also scaled down its initial demands—from seeking an army corps to three divisions, and finally to three brigades—but its aggressive posture on the ground remains unchanged. Ongoing Repression in Arab Villages In Hasakah and surrounding areas, the PKK/YPG continues operations that contradict the spirit of integration: seizing schools in Arab villages, positioning snipers in buildings, conducting arbitrary arrests, and deploying tanks and armored vehicles. In the past 24 hours, civilians have been detained over social media posts, further heightening tensions. Integration or Escalation? Security circles warn that the PKK/YPG is consciously obstructing the process and attempting to create conditions for renewed conflict. They emphasize that the ceasefire could collapse at any moment, especially if Damascus rejects the group’s controversial nominees. The start of the integration process now risks turning into a new wave of confrontation rather than a step toward peace.