The Syrian Ministry of Defense announced a ceasefire in the Ashrafiyeh, Sheikh Maqsoud, and Bani Zeid districts of Aleppo, effective from 3:00 AM until 9:00 AM today. The announcement aims to de-escalate tensions following recent clashes.
The Ministry has granted armed groups affiliated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) a deadline until 9:00 AM to leave Aleppo, carrying only their individual light weapons. The Syrian Army has pledged to guarantee their safe passage to areas in the northeast of the country.
A statement from the Ministry emphasized that internal security forces are coordinating with the Army’s operations command to facilitate the militants’ withdrawal towards northeastern Syria. The stated objective of this measure is to end the current military situation, paving the way for the restoration of law and order in the city and enabling residents to return to their homes.
Prior to the ceasefire announcement, Syrian authorities imposed a complete curfew in several Aleppo neighborhoods, beginning Thursday evening and continuing ‘until further notice.’ This decision was prompted by the deteriorating security situation resulting from the SDF’s intensified attacks in the area.
On Thursday evening, the Syrian government reported that security forces had entered the Ashrafiyeh district of Aleppo following fierce clashes with the SDF. Reports indicate that internal security forces are currently conducting thorough sweeps of the Ashrafiyeh district, prioritizing the safety of families who were allegedly prevented from leaving by the SDF.
Syrian state news agency, SANA, reported that internal security forces in Aleppo discovered a warehouse containing weapons and ammunition belonging to the SDF, along with a car bomb abandoned by the group on one of the main streets.
Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Gharib stated that authorities will soon announce the organized and safe return of residents to their homes, in accordance with instructions to be published through official channels.
Recent hours have witnessed escalating clashes between the army and the SDF, leading to widespread displacement of civilians. According to Aleppo health officials, the fighting has resulted in 8 deaths and 37 injuries over the past three days.
The renewed clashes between the SDF and the Syrian Army follow talks held last Sunday to implement the March agreement, which stipulates the integration of the SDF into state institutions. However, these talks have so far failed to produce concrete results.
