In Syria, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the transitional government under President Ahmed al-Scharaa have reached a peace agreement, averting a looming civil war in the northeast. Germany's federal government defends its milder approach, while human rights groups and opposition criticize the handling of the Kurds. The deal includes troop withdrawals and integration of Kurdish structures, but skepticism persists.
The shockwaves of the conflict in northern Syria have reached Germany. Without the peace agreement reached on Friday between the Syrian transitional government and the SDF brigades, the northeast of Syria would have been on the brink of civil war once more. The Kurdish fighters, including thousands of YPJ female soldiers, played a key role in defeating ISIS in 2019.
Human rights groups like Hawar.help, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch warn of severe violations: mass displacements, attacks on civilian infrastructure, and the release of ISIS fighters. Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor stated in Berlin: "The world and Europe cannot afford to remain silent. We must hold the Syrian government accountable for these attacks."
In Germany, the debate has intensified. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul defended the government's milder stance in parliament and expressed hope for a state visit by al-Scharaa to discuss "critical issues" as well. He emphasized the need to support Syria's reconstruction to enable the deportation of Syrian refugees and viewed the central government's enforcement of its monopoly on violence as appropriate.
Opposition figures like Left Party MP Cansu Özdemir accused betrayal: "This is a betrayal of your own values." Greens leader Katharina Dröge demanded support for the Kurds. Nationwide protests occurred, including an occupation at the "Spiegel" in Hamburg.
The agreement provides for the withdrawal of forces, the establishment of a military division with Kurdish brigades, and the integration of Kurdish government bodies. Düzen Tekkal of Hawar.help hopes for an end to the bloodshed. However, Syria expert Anita Starosta cautions: "The ceasefire is fragile." She calls for including Kurds in talks and prioritizing stability and human rights.
