Mazloum Abdi: IDPs' return is key priority in SDF's policies

On Sunday, the Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces, Mazloum Abdi, met with a delegation from Serê Kaniyê Displaced Persons Committee as part of the committee's efforts to review developments related to the return process, present the demands of displaced residents inside and outside the camps, and highlight their ongoing suffering since their displacement in 2019 following the Turkish offensive on the region.

The two parties discussed the conditions of the displaced in the occupied areas, camps, and shelters, the need to provide them with basic needs until they return, and ways to support their efforts to organize their return to their areas of origin, ensuring their legal and humanitarian rights and achieving stability in North and East Syria.

The right of return and its priority is within SDF's policies

The Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces emphasized that the return of the displaced to their homes is a fundamental priority in the policies of the Syrian Democratic Forces. He explained that the March 10th Agreement includes a clear clause regarding the displaced and their right of return, stressing the necessity of implementing this clause effectively. He stated, "The right of return is inviolable, and we will continue to work politically and on the ground to ensure the safe and dignified return of all residents to their areas of origin."

He also emphasized that the issue of the occupied areas, including Serê Kaniyê, occupies a high position among the priorities of any future dialogue or negotiation in terms of the future of Syria.

Abdi explained that the leadership of the Syrian Democratic Forces is working in parallel with all regional, local, and international parties to find a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the issue of the displaced.

He added that the return will be organized, not individual or random, and will be guaranteed by local authorities and international organizations to ensure the safety of the returnees and the stability of their areas.

Abdi noted that the situation on the ground in Serê Kaniyê has remained unchanged since the city was occupied in 2019, in light of the clear absence of a transitional government role there.

He explained that the issue of return to the city and its countryside requires some time to overcome political, security, and administrative obstacles, stressing that work is ongoing to find practical solutions that will pave the way for the orderly and safe return of residents.

He stated that the Syrian Democratic Forces have presented clear proposals and visions to Damascus, urging it to deal seriously and responsibly with the issues of displaced persons in various Syrian regions.

The Commander-in-Chief emphasized that the security and safety of returning displaced persons is a top priority in any return plan, stressing that the process must be organized and well-thought-out to ensure that the tragedies previously suffered by civilians are not repeated.

He indicated that the completion of military, security, and administrative coordination and integration operations in North and East Syria with the Interim Government in Damascus will contribute positively to the issue of displaced persons and the future of the occupied areas.

J.J