Violent clashes between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have heightened in Aleppo’s northern city for the third consecutive day, leading to the displacement of tens of thousands of civilians. The Syrian government urged civilians to evacuate a disputed area in Aleppo to avoid impending “targeted operations” against the SDF in Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Bani Zaid neighborhoods. The conflict, which began on Tuesday, has resulted in multiple casualties and numerous injuries.
Both sides have accused each other of targeting civilian areas and infrastructure deliberately, presenting a significant challenge for Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who aims to unify the country post the 14-year-long war. Save the Children estimated that over 16,000 civilians, including a significant number of children, fled Aleppo within 24 hours, while many families remain trapped without essential supplies.
The Aleppo directorate of social affairs and labor reported that approximately 140,000 people have been internally displaced in the province, with a considerable portion facing medical issues, including the elderly, women, and children. The conflict has claimed the lives of at least seven civilians and one soldier in government-controlled areas, with the SDF confirming the deaths of at least eight civilians in Kurdish-majority neighborhoods.
Amid the ongoing clashes, rescue teams battled fires sparked by the shelling as the United Nations voiced concerns and called for de-escalation. UNICEF responded by distributing hygiene kits to displaced families in Aleppo, emphasizing the urgent need for aid as the conflict escalates.
The Syrian Democratic Forces, a U.S.-supported coalition controlling northeastern Syria, have resisted merging with the Islamist-led government, leading to the recent clashes with the Syrian army. The U.S. State Department closely monitors the situation, advocating for restraint and peaceful resolutions to avoid further violence.
Turkey views the SDF as a terrorist group due to its ties with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, adding complexity to the conflict. The clashes in Aleppo stem from stalled negotiations between the Syrian government and the SDF, despite previous agreements to integrate the SDF into the Syrian army.
The Turkish Foreign Minister and diplomats have raised concerns about the SDF’s role in Syria’s peace process, warning of potential military actions if the situation worsens. Turkey has pledged support to Syria upon request while closely monitoring the conflict developments.