Iraq welcomes integration of Syrian Democratic Forces into Syrian army

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Foreign Ministry said on Friday it welcomed the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syrian state institutions, calling the move an important step toward consolidating stability and sovereignty in Syria. In a written statement, the ministry said talks between SDF command structures and the Syrian government had produced positive outcomes, resulting in a decision to bring the Syrian Armed Forces under a single framework. It described the agreement as a meaningful development for reinforcing Syria's stability and strengthening its sovereignty. The ministry said additional steps aimed at broadening participation in governance and meeting the Syrian people's expectations of security, peace and stability were being assessed in the same direction. Iraq reiterated its support for efforts to preserve Syria's unity, sovereignty and stability. The statement also reaffirmed that Syrian state institutions should serve as a common framework encompassing all components of Syrian society. No further details were immediately available on the timeline or implementation of the integration.