ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - The Kurdistan Democratic Party’s (KDP) President Masoud Barzani on Saturday said the recent events in Syria have a direct impact on the region, expressing hope that the developments lead to dialogue aimed at resolving “contentious issues” between the concerned parties.

“We are following with great interest the recent events and changes taking place in Syria, as these developments and events have a direct impact on the political future, security and stability of Syria and our entire region,” read a statement from President Barzani.

Barzani expressed hope that the involved parties adopt dialogue and understanding to resolve the contentious issues, and that they do not engage in any behavior that would “deepen national and sectarian disputes and conflicts between the components of Syria.”

He also expressed hope that the parties can peacefully reach an agreement that would serve the interests of all the components of the country.

The opposition's self-proclaimed Syrian Salvation Government (SSG) last week emphasized that Syrian Kurds are an integral part of the nation, pledging to protect Kurdish communities in Aleppo, including the Kurdish-majority neighborhood of Sheikh Maqsoud, and ensure their rights and security.

The Syrian army on Saturday announced it redeployed from Daraa and Suwayda provinces following clashes with local factions. The army conducted "a redeployment, repositioning, and establishment of a strong and cohesive defensive and security cordon in that direction," it said

The regime has now lost control of four major cities since the start of the recent campaign by anti-government groups on November 27, and also lost full control of Idlib, some parts of which were already held by opposition forces.

Media affiliated with Syrian opposition factions announced the groups have seized control of the Sa'sa' branch for military security in Rif Dimashq, adding that they continue advancing toward Damacus.

Syrian rebel commander Hassan Abdulghani said the groups have begun "the final phase" of encircling the capital.