Syrian Government Forces Take Control of Sheikh Maqsoud in Aleppo

Overview of the Situation

Syrian government forces successfully took control of Sheikh Maqsoud, the last district in Aleppo not under state control, on Sunday. This development coincided with significant strikes by U.S. and allied forces targeting Islamic State positions across Syria.

Evacuations and Detentions

Reports indicate that government forces evacuated over 400 Kurdish fighters from Sheikh Maqsoud while detaining approximately 300 Kurds. This information was shared by an interior ministry official and characterized the conclusion of intense fighting in the region.

Details of the Evacuations

The official revealed that "360 fighters and more than 59 wounded" individuals were transferred overnight to Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria. Additionally, 300 Kurds, including members of Kurdish security forces, were taken into custody.

Military Operations Halted

Following the evacuation, Syrian state television announced a cessation of military operations in Sheikh Maqsoud. Hundreds of residents who had been displaced by the conflict were seen waiting at the neighborhood entrances, eager to return once operations were officially concluded.

Clashes and Military Engagements

Syrian security forces initiated a deployment in Sheikh Maqsoud on Saturday after several days of clashes with Kurdish fighters, resulting in multiple casualties. The state news agency SANA reported that security forces encouraged residents to remain indoors as operations intensified.

Ongoing Violence

Two Kurdish fighters detonated explosives while surrounded by security forces, but no additional casualties were reported. Gunfire persisted around midday on Saturday, indicating the ongoing volatility of the situation.

Drone Strike Incident

Later in the day, an explosive-laden drone targeted the Aleppo governorate building shortly after a press conference involving two cabinet ministers and a local official. State television attributed this attack to Kurdish fighters, a claim that was categorically denied by the primary Kurdish-led force, which asserted it does not engage civilian targets.

Background of the Conflict

The clashes in Kurdish-majority neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud, Achrafieh, and Bani Zaid commenced earlier in the week following stalled negotiations between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) regarding the integration of Kurdish fighters into Syria’s national army. Since the onset of conflict, government forces have regained control of Achrafieh and Bani Zaid.

Casualties and Displacement

Over five days of fighting have resulted in at least 22 fatalities, with both sides reporting civilian casualties. This violence has led to the displacement of more than 140,000 people, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Diplomatic Efforts

In a separate development, Jordan’s foreign minister engaged in discussions with the U.S. special envoy to Syria regarding the situation. The focus was on consolidating a ceasefire and facilitating the peaceful withdrawal of Kurdish fighters from the area.