Raqqa, Syria – Violent clashes erupted last night in the Maadan desert, east of Raqqa, following an attack by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on Syrian Army positions in the area. The exchange marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two forces.
According to reports, the Syrian Army responded with artillery fire, targeting the sources of the SDF’s attack on army outposts in the Raqqa countryside. While official casualty figures have not been released by either side, local sources indicate that both Syrian Army soldiers and SDF fighters sustained casualties during the intense fighting.
The recent outbreak of violence casts a shadow over a previously signed agreement in March between Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi. The agreement aimed to integrate the SDF into state institutions, affirming the Kurdish community as an integral part of the Syrian state and people. The deal also included incorporating SDF-controlled territories into the Syrian administration, including border crossings, airports, and oil fields, as well as facilitating the return of displaced Syrians to their homes in northeastern Syria. The implementation of the agreement was slated for completion before the end of the year.
Speaking at a conference in Iraqi Kurdistan on Wednesday, Abdi stated that his forces “do not pose a threat to anyone” and affirmed that they administer areas under the umbrella of the Syrian state. He expressed hope that all provisions of the March 10th agreement with the government would be finalized by the end of the year, describing the agreement as “beneficial” and one that “put an end to hate speech and revenge.”
The renewed fighting raises concerns about the future of the agreement and the fragile stability in the region. The situation remains fluid as both sides have yet to release an official statement. DZWatch will continue to monitor the developments and provide updates as they become available.
