The Syrian Interior Ministry praises relations with Saudi Arabia and attacks the SDF
In statements reflecting a remarkable development in the course of inter-Arab relations, the Syrian Ministry of Interior confirmed that it has succeeded in building a strong and solid relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, noting that Damascus looks forward to emulating the Saudi experience in many fields, within the framework of joint cooperation that has begun to take an upward turn since Syria’s return to its Arab environment.
The ministry stated in a press release to Al-Ekhbariya TV that relations with the Kingdom have reached advanced levels, emphasizing, "We have built a strong relationship with the Kingdom and have followed its example." This statement reinforces the recent trend of diplomatic openness in the region, with Damascus and Riyadh resuming diplomatic relations, paving the way for broader security and political cooperation aimed at strengthening regional stability and combating shared challenges.
Regional context and the return of relations
These statements are particularly significant given Saudi Arabia's political and economic weight in the region. Observers believe that the Syrian Interior Ministry's praise of the Saudi experience indicates Damascus's desire to benefit from Saudi expertise in internal security, administrative development, and combating organized crime, especially in light of the challenges Syria has faced over the past decade.
Field developments and the SDF file
On the domestic front, the Syrian Interior Ministry launched a scathing attack on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), accusing them of reneging on numerous previous agreements. The ministry stated that SDF elements had been expelled from the Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood in Aleppo, an area that had witnessed frequent security tensions in recent times.
In the context of separating social components from armed factions, the Syrian Interior Ministry stressed that the "Kurdistan Workers' Party" does not represent the authentic Kurdish component in Syria, directing accusations at the "SDF" forces of targeting civilians "mercilessly," which exacerbated the suffering of the people in the areas controlled by those forces.
In a notable statement regarding the map of alliances and armaments, the ministry stated that Iran had armed the SDF in Syria, highlighting the complexities of the military situation on the ground. The ministry concluded its statement by emphasizing that its top priority is protecting public and private property and enforcing the rule of law throughout all Syrian territory.
