Tensions remain high in and around the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, with ongoing clashes primarily concentrated near the Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafi districts. These two districts, located in northern Aleppo, are controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) despite the Syrian government’s overall control of the Aleppo Governorate. The SDF considers these areas a separate enclave from its larger territory east of the Euphrates River.
The areas surrounding Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafi, including Al-Midan, Suleimaniyeh, Al-Suryan, Shihane Roundabout, and Yarmouk Roundabout, have become flashpoints. Fighting between the Syrian Army and the SDF is heavily concentrated in the area between the Shihane and Yarmouk roundabouts. This area is strategically important, as it lies along an international highway connecting Aleppo to Gaziantep and Turkey, often resulting in its closure due to the conflict.
The Syrian government has announced the establishment of two humanitarian corridors, Al-Awarid and Zahour Street, for civilians seeking to evacuate the area. These routes were declared safe passage until a specified deadline issued by the Syrian Army. Military officials within the Syrian Army have stated that all SDF military positions within Aleppo neighborhoods are considered legitimate targets, following renewed SDF shelling of residential areas and escalating clashes.
The recent surge in violence follows alleged SDF shelling of residential neighborhoods and a Syrian Army position in Aleppo. These attacks reportedly involved artillery and heavy machine guns, resulting in casualties. Reports indicate both civilian and military fatalities and injuries.
