Violent Clashes Erupt in Northern Syria Following Failed Agreement between SDF and Syrian Government
Background of the Conflict
Violent clashes erupted in the last two days between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), largely associated with the Kurdish minority in Syria, and Syrian government forces in the Ashrafiyeh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods of Aleppo. This escalation follows a failure to implement an agreement signed on March 10 of last year between the Syrian government, led by President Ahmad al-Shara, and the SDF aimed at integrating the SDF into state institutions.
Casualties and Humanitarian Impact
According to a Syrian health ministry source speaking to SyriaTV, eight people have died, and over 52 have been injured in the recent clashes in Aleppo. The SDF reported seven fatalities and 54 injuries. Meanwhile, government-affiliated media released footage of the evacuation of residents from the two neighborhoods amid rising tensions, countering claims made by the SDF regarding the situation in the area.
Military Statements and Allegations
In a morning statement, the Syrian military declared that « all positions of the Syrian Democratic Forces in the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods in Aleppo are legitimate military targets, » citing a significant escalation from the SDF and harm to civilians. The Syrian army urged citizens in these neighborhoods to evacuate, announcing the establishment of two humanitarian corridors for residents to leave by 3:00 PM.
Conversely, the SDF alleged that government forces are using young people as « human shields, » attacking the neighborhoods and besieging them. They refuted claims of a ceasefire, stating that continued bombardments and drstart strikes are ongoing.
Government’s Position
In an official statement, the Syrian government emphasized that actions taken in the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods are intended to maintain security and prevent armed activities within residential areas while ensuring the protection of civilians and their property. The government condemned the rhetoric from SDF representatives, asserting that it does not reflect the actual situation on the ground.
The Current Situation in Aleppo
As tensions escalate further in Aleppo, the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority has suspended flights to and from Aleppo International Airport until 11:00 PM today. The SDF remains adamant about their commitment to their residences, rejecting forced displacement. They warned that attempts to impose a new military reality through media manipulation and on-ground escalation would not go unchallenged.
The situation in Aleppo continues to be complex, highlighting the ongoing strife between various factions in Syria and the humanitarian crises that arise amidst the conflict.