News|Syria's WarUS urges de-escalation as Syrian army advances on Kurdish-held territoryKurdish-led SDF accuses Syrian forces of violating withdrawal deal as they take key towns and oilfields.
## Developments in Syrian Military Operations
Developments in Syrian Military Operations
The United States has called for a cessation of Syrian military advancements through Kurdish-held areas in northern Syria, following recent engagements between Syrian troops and Kurdish-led forces over strategic locations and oilfields along the Euphrates River.
On Saturday, Syrian troops advanced rapidly after the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) agreed to withdraw east of the river, amidst ongoing conflicts in Aleppo and nearby regions.
Brad Cooper, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), communicated via social media that Syrian forces should halt offensive actions in areas between Aleppo and Tabqa, located about 160km (100 miles) east in Raqqa governorate.
The Syrian Army Operations Command reported entering Tabqa, a strategic town near a dam and a military airbase, a claim which the SDF denied, stating their forces remained in position.
The SDF indicated intentions to retreat from key towns like Deir Hafer and Maksana in the Aleppo governorate. However, the Syrian army took control of these regions on Saturday, accusing the SDF of breaching a withdrawal agreement by attacking an army patrol near Maksana.
On Saturday, Syrian troops advanced rapidly after the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) agreed to withdraw east of the river, amidst ongoing conflicts in Aleppo and nearby regions.
Syrian forces have reportedly expanded into Raqqa's countryside, entering Kurdish-controlled towns and imposing a curfew in Maadan, while advancing towards Tabqa. The SDF has accused the Syrian government of violating agreements and has reported ongoing heavy clashes.
The Syrian Petroleum Company announced the acquisition of the al-Rasafa and Safyan oilfields following the takeover of Deir Hafer and Maskana by Syrian troops from the SDF.
The United States is adjusting its policy in Syria, aiming to balance its historic support for the SDF with its backing of the new Syrian administration under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who succeeded Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.
US envoy Tom Barrack visited Erbil in the Kurdish region of Iraq to discuss recent developments with Kurdish leaders. The Kurdish authorities appreciated a decree recognizing the Kurdish language and restoring citizenship to Kurdish Syrians, but emphasized the need for legislative reinforcement.
Despite conciliatory statements, the challenge of integrating SDF fighters into the Syrian Army remains unresolved, contributing to recent conflicts.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
