ALEPPO, Syria, January 9 — Syrian army forces have entered buildings in the Kurdish-majority districts of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh in Aleppo, marking a serious escalation in three days of heavy clashes. The fighting between government troops and the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has derailed a major peace agreement and caused significant civilian casualties.
What Happened in Aleppo?
A Syrian military source told Al Jazeera that the army began concentrated artillery strikes on SDF positions in the two districts. The SDF media office stated government forces have bombarded residential areas for three straight days with artillery and tanks. Syrian state news agency SANA reported the SDF shelled the al-Midan neighbourhood in response.
- The Syrian Health Ministry said nine civilians were killed and 55 injured by SDF attacks in Aleppo city.
- An SDF operational update claimed its forces killed nine Syrian soldiers and destroyed two armoured vehicles.
Why Does This Matter Now?
The violence directly undermines a U.S.-facilitated integration deal signed in March 2025. That agreement aimed to merge the Kurdish-led semi-autonomous region, including its forces and resources, into the Syrian state. Mazloum Abdi, the SDF leader, said the Aleppo clashes “undermine the chances of reaching understandings.” His visit to Damascus on Sunday for implementation talks failed to yield results.
What Was the March 2025 Deal?
The agreement between the SDF and the Syrian government emphasized national unity and included key points:
- Merging all SDF civil and military institutions into the Syrian state administration.
- A ceasefire across Syria.
- SDF support in combating fighters loyal to ousted President Bashar al-Assad.
- An affirmation of Kurdish rights and citizenship within Syria.
What is the Humanitarian Cost?
Dr. Othman Sheikh Issa, a health official in the Kurdish-controlled areas, told DPA news agency that four of the five hospitals in Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Bani Zaid are no longer operational. He cited a severe lack of doctors, medicine, and fuel for generators amid the heavy shelling. Syrian authorities have also imposed a full curfew in six Aleppo neighbourhoods, including the two Kurdish districts.
What is the U.S. Position?
The United States, which backs the SDF but also has warm relations with Damascus, called for restraint. A State Department spokesperson said the U.S. is monitoring the situation and that Special Envoy Tom Barrack continues to support dialogue for implementing the March agreement. The spokesperson urged all parties to focus on building a peaceful Syria rather than returning to violence.
