The Syrian Army commenced deployment this Saturday morning in areas previously held by the SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) in the Aleppo countryside. This follows the SDF’s announcement last night of their withdrawal from these regions west of the Euphrates. The Syrian Army has affirmed that it will not target SDF forces during their withdrawal.
The Syrian Army Operations Command announced the complete control of Deir Hafer city in the eastern Aleppo countryside. Operations are underway to secure the city and clear it of mines and remnants of war. Initial army units have also reached Maskana city in the eastern Aleppo countryside.
Furthermore, the Syrian Army has entered the village of al-Jafira, an area previously controlled by the SDF since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in late 2024. The army has secured 14 villages and towns east of Deir Hafer city in the Aleppo countryside. The Operations Command confirmed the safe passage of over 200 SDF personnel, with their weapons, from Deir Hafer and its surrounding areas. In total, the Syrian Army claims to have established control over 34 villages and towns in the eastern Aleppo countryside.
Earlier today, reports indicated the arrival of Syrian Army tanks, armored vehicles, and troop carriers in the region in preparation for deployment in Deir Hafer. The Syrian Army has cautioned residents in the eastern Aleppo countryside against entering the operation zone until it is secured and cleared of mines. According to Syrian state news, the Operations Command stated that army forces are prepared to enter the area to restore stability, assert sovereignty, and facilitate the return of residents to their homes, allowing state institutions to resume their functions.
The Operations Command is monitoring the SDF’s implementation of its announced decision and stated its readiness for all possible scenarios. Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the SDF, announced the withdrawal of his forces from the current contact lines in Deir Hafer city, eastern Aleppo countryside, starting at 7:00 AM local time. Abdi stated that this decision was made following calls from friendly countries and mediators, and as a gesture of goodwill to complete the integration process and adhere to the terms of the March 10th agreement.
Abdi’s announcement came approximately two hours after the Syrian Army reported targeting SDF positions.
