Damascus: The Syrian government has clarified that it holds no conflict with the Kurdish community in Syria, but rather with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) group, as stated by an Interior Ministry spokesman. Noureddine al-Baba, in an interview aired on Saudi television Al-Hadath, emphasized that the issue is political in nature concerning the SDF, which is dominated by the YPG, a Syrian branch of the PKK.

According to Anadolu Agency, Baba highlighted that Damascus has communicated 'positive messages' to the Kurdish community in northeastern Syria since the military campaign's inception. He mentioned that the Kurds have been victims of 'misleading propaganda' by the SDF. The government has also maintained open communication channels with Arab tribes in the region, aiming to pursue peaceful solutions to prevent further conflict.

Baba referred to a significant March 10 agreement with the SDF, which was well-received by Syrians and led to public celebrations in northeastern Syria. However, these celebrations were reportedly disrupted by SDF forces through gunfire and arbitrary arrests, particularly targeting those who displayed the Syrian flag. The SDF's failure to implement the March 10, 2025, agreement, which called for the group's integration into state institutions, has been a point of contention.

The Syrian government has continued negotiations under international and regional guarantees, with efforts led by the US and Saudi Arabia. Baba accused the SDF of not responding to these initiatives and escalating attacks, including sniper fire on civilians in Aleppo and mortar shelling in residential areas. In response, the government launched 'limited' military operations against the SDF in specific neighborhoods to protect civilians, which Baba stated were executed with minimal damage and support from local residents.

Baba made a distinction between the SDF leadership and its rank-and-file members, noting that many joined under duress or economic hardship. The government is open to welcoming defectors who have not been involved in violence, with plans to announce reconciliation measures for former SDF members. Their skills could be integrated into state institutions as part of the reconciliation efforts.

The Interior Ministry's role following military advances is focused on securing property, protecting vital facilities, and restoring security to facilitate the return of civilians. This interview follows a statement from the Syrian Presidency regarding a 'mutual understanding' reached with the SDF about the future of Hasakah province. Despite a Defense Ministry announced ceasefire, the SDF launched attacks on Syrian positions, resulting in casualties on the first day of the truce.