News|Syria's WarAt least two killed in Aleppo clashes between Syrian army, Kurdish-led SDFViolence comes as top Syrian and Turkish officials held talks on integrating SDF forces into Syria’s new army.

Conflict in Aleppo Between Syrian Army and SDF

Clashes have erupted between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Aleppo, resulting in fatalities ahead of the integration deadline of the SDF into Syrian state institutions.

According to a medical source, two civilians were killed and 11 others injured after the SDF targeted Syrian security force positions near Sheihan and Lairmoun roundabouts in Aleppo. The violence caused displacement of local families and workers, as reported by Syria’s state-run agency, SANA.

The Syrian Civil Defence reported injuries to two of its rescuers and two children due to SDF gunfire. Syria’s Ministry of Interior labeled the incident as a "treacherous" attack by the SDF on security forces.

Following several hours of combat, both parties agreed to cease fire on Monday. SANA cited the Syrian army's order to stop targeting fire sources, while the SDF instructed its forces to stop retaliating.

High-Level Discussions on SDF Integration

The clashes coincided with a visit by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Damascus for discussions on integrating the SDF into Syria’s military structure. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa had previously signed an agreement with the SDF in March to integrate the group into state institutions, though details remain unclear and implementation stalled.

Reports indicate that the meeting between Syrian and Turkish officials may have influenced the clashes. Previously, Damascus proposed merging 50,000 SDF fighters into three divisions with partial Syrian control, a plan opposed by Turkey, which seeks to dismantle the SDF's command structure.

Samy Akil, a fellow at the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy, noted various factors delaying the agreement’s implementation, including a lack of confidence-building measures between the parties. The SDF faces pressure to integrate, while the Syrian government is under pressure from Turkey for a diplomatic resolution.

A significant issue is whether the SDF will integrate as a unit within the Syrian army or dissolve with members absorbed individually. Turkiye opposes the SDF joining as a single entity due to links with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). A preliminary agreement suggests forming three divisions affiliated with the SDF, but finalization details remain unclear.

The original integration deadline was set for the end of the year, with concerns of potential military conflict if progress is not achieved. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani indicated a lack of serious commitment from the SDF to implement the integration agreement, calling it "systematic procrastination." A proposal from Damascus is currently under review by the SDF.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.