December 22, militias with ties to the PKK and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) attacked Syrian government checkpoints and positions, as well as medical personnel, civilian infrastructure and residential areas in Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh districts, areas currently controlled by SDF-aligned armed groups. Against this backdrop, many Syrian tribes have reaffirmed their steadfast support for the Syrian state, declaring unity behind its leadership in the face of threats to national sovereignty and attempts at division.
These declarations were made during a large meeting convened by the Al-Egaidat tribe and Al-Shuaytat clans in Najha, Damascus Countryside Governorate. The gathering aimed to demonstrate solidarity with the Syrian state and to reject any assaults on Syria’s territorial integrity.
Calls for Discipline and National Unity
Addressing attendees, Presidential Advisor for Tribal and Clan Affairs Jihad Isa called on all Syrian tribes and clans to adhere strictly to the directives of the Syrian leadership in any military or security-related circumstances.
He stressed the importance of disciplined tribal action within the framework of the state, particularly in matters related to national security, reconstruction, and stability. Isa emphasized that tribal mobilization must remain organized and aligned with official state institutions to safeguard unity and prevent chaos.
Isa referenced the agreement signed on March 10 between President Ahmad al-Sharaa and SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi, which provides a framework for the integration of the SDF into the Syrian Army and the restoration of state control over the Jazeera region (comprising Raqqa, Hasakah and Deir Ezzor) by the end of 2025.
“The Syrian Jazeera region will soon return to Syria,” Isa stated, affirming that tribes stand firmly with the state. He stressed that the governorates of Raqqa, Deir Ezzor, and Hasakah will remain impenetrable to division, preserving Syria’s strength through its people and resources.
Restoring the Role of Tribes and Their Commitment to Unity
Isa highlighted the current administration’s commitment to revitalizing the role of tribes in Syrian society, restoring their rights, status, and historical function. He contrasted this approach with the Assad regime, which he accused of deliberately marginalizing tribal communities.
“Today, the tribes’ role is being restored under new leadership and in partnership with the Syrian state, serving the interests of the people,” he said.
The meeting was attended by prominent tribal figures from across Syria, all echoing calls for unity and expressing support for President Sharaa and the Syrian state against any attempts at partition. Abdulmunim al-Nassif, head of the Council of Syrian Tribes and Clans, affirmed that Syria will remain unified, stressing that tribes stand firmly against all efforts to divide or destabilize the country.
The gathering reflects a broader effort by Damascus to consolidate internal support, particularly among influential tribal structures, at a critical moment for safeguarding Syria’s sovereignty and territorial cohesion.
