News|Syria's WarDrone hits Aleppo governorate building after Syrian army declares ceasefireThe strike marks a widening of hostilities that had been contained to Ashrafieh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighbourhoods.
A drone strike occurred at a governorate building in Aleppo, Syria, amidst ongoing conflict between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This incident represents a significant escalation in the hostilities.
A drone strike occurred at a governorate building in Aleppo, Syria, amidst ongoing conflict between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This incident represents a significant escalation in the hostilities.
The drone, reportedly launched by the Kurdish-led SDF, targeted the building while top officials, including Aleppo’s governor and two Syrian government ministers, were present. This event marks the first reported use of long-range drones by the SDF in Aleppo.
The Syrian army had recently announced a suspension of military operations in the Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood. According to a proposed agreement, SDF fighters were to withdraw, surrender their weapons, and relocate to Tabqa in northeastern Syria. However, Syrian authorities reported entering Sheikh Maqsoud, conducting weapon sweeps, and detaining or disarming SDF fighters.
The SDF disputed these claims, stating that fighting continued and that government forces had not fully secured the area. The SDF described the government's statements as misleading, asserting that their fighters were still defending against attacks.
A drone strike occurred at a governorate building in Aleppo, Syria, amidst ongoing conflict between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The conflict has significantly affected civilians, with nearly 180,000 people displaced from the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods. Health officials reported at least 22 deaths, including civilians, due to the escalated violence. Authorities have cautioned residents against returning to affected areas due to ongoing operations and unexploded ordnance risks.
The United States has acknowledged the ceasefire reports and urged all parties to protect civilians and avoid further escalation. Meanwhile, the United Nations has expressed concern over the humanitarian impact, urging adherence to international law and civilian protection.
Efforts to integrate the SDF into Syrian state institutions have faced challenges since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad's regime. The SDF, established in 2015, has been a key player in the region, with ongoing negotiations for integration into state structures.
Turkiye has indicated readiness to support Syria in its efforts against the SDF, reflecting longstanding tensions between Ankara and the Kurdish forces.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
