President Ahmed al-Sharaa has appointed Mazloum Abdi, the former commander of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as a presidential adviser, state media reported. The move comes three days after authorities declared the dissolution of the SDF, the armed formation Abdi formerly led.
Mazloum Abdi has been a prominent figure in northeastern Syria as a commander of the SDF. The new advisory role places him within the presidential apparatus following the government's decision to disband the force he once headed.
The timing of the appointment underscores a rapid shift in the relationship between the central government and figures from the SDF’s leadership. Officials have not yet detailed the responsibilities Abdi will hold as a presidential adviser or how his new position will relate to the government’s plans for territories formerly under SDF control.
No immediate comment was available from international actors or local representatives about the appointment. Further statements from the presidency or from Abdi himself are expected to clarify the scope of his advisory remit and the practical implications of the SDF’s dissolution.