14.09.2025 09:50
In an interview with the state channel in Syria, President Ahmed Shara emphasized that his country would not give up a single grain of its territory. Shara stated, "Division will create a contagious effect; for example, if the northeastern region tends towards division, it will significantly affect Turkey and Iraq as well." On the other hand, Shara announced that they are at war with Israel.
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Syrian President Ahmed Shara gave an interview regarding developments in Syria through the country's official television channel, Al-Ikhbariya TV, and the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). President Shara stated that they aim to establish foreign relations based on their sovereignty, independent decision-making, and prioritizing the interests of the country, emphasizing that "Syria will not accept division and will not give up even a single inch of its territory," adding that his country does not want to be in tension with any country in the world.
"SDG IS NOT THE VOICE OF THE KURDISH PEOPLE"
The Syrian leader also spoke about the negotiations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the umbrella organization of the terrorist group PYD/YPG. Shara emphasized that the SDF is not the voice of the Kurdish people, stating according to a report in the Aydınlık newspaper: "There are mistakes on all sides in the disagreement that arose between Bedouin tribes and the Druze community in Sweida. The priority should be to stop the bloodshed, then establish truth-finding commissions, and those at fault must be held accountable. Some parties are trying to take advantage of the situation either from within Sweida or from outside, especially from Israel.
"SYRIA WILL NOT ACCEPT DIVISION"
Syria will not accept division! Division will create a contagious effect; for example, if the northeastern region tends towards division, it will significantly affect Turkey and Iraq as well; it will resonate globally. Negotiations with the SDF have made progress, but implementation is stalling due to delays and international interventions. The agreement, aimed to be completed in December, includes the participation of SDF forces in the Syrian Arab Army and local governance arrangements. The people of northeastern Syria, especially the Arab tribes loyal to Damascus, demand a swift resolution to the issue.
Elements showing tendencies towards decentralization or division in northeastern Syria are the SDF. The Arab element in the region represents more than 70% of the population. Additionally, the SDF does not represent the Kurds and therefore cannot be considered the sole voice of the region. The interests of Sweida and northeastern Syria lie with Damascus, and this presents an opportunity for Syria to heal its wounds and embark on a new path. This issue should be resolved not through war or conflict, but through peaceful means and negotiations. Agreements have been made regarding the participation of SDF elements in the Syrian Arab Army. Special statuses and some local leadership positions will be granted to Kurdish regions. It is also understandable that the state demands continuity from the people.
"ISRAEL IS IN A STATE OF WAR WITH SYRIA"
Syria will not give up even a grain of its land. We will take all necessary measures for the peace of the people and the unity of the country. The 'oath' we have taken in front of the people is solid. Israel wants to turn Syria into a regional conflict zone. Israel had plans to divide Syria; however, these plans were disrupted with the regime's overthrow. It is trying to cover some of its problems with 'deliberate displays of power.' We are currently conducting security talks with Israel. These talks are ongoing within a framework that anticipates a return to the situation before December 8; however, they have not yet concluded. We have requested that the UN and UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force) forces return to their former positions. The Blue Line in southern Syria has collapsed, and Israel has taken its place. Despite Israel's adherence to the 1974 disengagement agreement, it has returned to a state of indirect war with Syria after the liberation. Negotiations are ongoing for the re-implementation of the 1974 agreement; our borders prior to liberation must be re-established.
"RUSSIA'S ROLE IS STRATEGIC, NO PERMANENT BREAK WITH IRAN"
Shara stated that Syria aims to establish peaceful and calm relations with all countries, highlighting Russia's strategic importance. Shara reminded that Russia has had relations with Syria since the Ottoman period. He emphasized that past ties should be preserved, stating that being stuck in the past would hinder progress, saying, "What is important is that relations are based on Syria's sovereignty, independent decision-making, and prioritizing the interests of the country." Notably cautious expressions were used regarding Iran, while Shara also left the door open to Tehran. He stated the following about Iran and Russia: "The fall of the regime led to the removal of Iran-aligned elements from the region, and Syria experienced a period of coldness in its relations with Iran. Iran's loss of Syria after December 8 was its biggest setback in the region. The wound for Iran became a bit deeper. However, we are not saying that there will be a permanent break between us and the Iranians."
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