In an exclusive interview with Channel8, featured in Abdi's Route documentary, Mazloum Abdi, Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), underscored key differences with the Syrian government, particularly concerning centralization and decentralization.

Abdi stressed that while both sides agree on the necessity of change in Syria, they diverge on the country's future structure, especially in terms of centralization and decentralization.

"There is, indeed, a difference between our views. We agree on some general issues. For instance, we both want Syria to remain united and not divided," Abdi said, adding, "We don’t differ on strategic issues."

Abdi highlighted the need to incorporate northern and eastern Syria’s decade-long experience into the country’s future framework, advocating for its role in shaping Syria’s new political structure. Although the new Syrian government "want Syria to be centralized," he said.

Abdi reiterated agreement on Syria’s unity but acknowledged differences in the process, including the SDF’s role within the army, institutional integration, and the transition from centralization to decentralization.

According to Abdi, another key disagreement is how "the SDF should become part of the Syrian Army, how the institutions here should be integrated into Syria." On this issue, Abdi emphasized, "they want this process to happen quickly, but we believe it needs more time. We want the process to be conducted in a healthy, sustainable way. We also differ in the details, and this requires agreement."

Abdi noted that while these issues remain contentious, negotiations are ongoing, with mediation from parties such as the United States, Britain, and France. He highlighted the presence of a security understanding that ensures stability, with both sides striving for progress through continued dialogue.

Abdi pointed out Syria’s diverse demographic makeup, including Sunnis, Kurds, Alawites, Druze, and Christians, emphasizing that Sunnis constitute a significant portion of the population.

"That is, there must be a decentralized Syria. I believe that if there is no decentralized system in Syria, the problems will persist. The issues will only get worse," he added.

Abdi warned that reinstating a centralized regime after 14 years of civil war would reignite conflicts among Syria’s communities.

"Of course, Syria remains one, and the central government will have its own authority and decision-making as well," he emphasized.