Syrian president discusses Kurdish rights and the SDF

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa speaks in an interview with Shams TV, addressing developments in Aleppo, relations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and Kurdish rights in Syria. Al-Sharaa said the SDF does not represent all Kurds and argued that stability in Aleppo required state authority and security, referring to clashes in neighbourhoods including Sheikh Maqsoud. He also discussed an agreement between Damascus and the SDF, saying it affirms Syria’s territorial unity and guarantees Kurdish rights within the constitution.

The interview, scheduled to be released on Tuesday, 13 January, was cancelled by Shams TV before airing, citing concerns over its tone. Syria’s Ministry of Information said the interview was conducted freely and professionally, noting that al-Sharaa deliberately chose a Kurdish channel to underline the importance of Kurdish rights beyond organisational frameworks. The ministry later broadcast the interview on state television, saying the public has a right to access diverse views.

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