At least three people lost their lives, and more than 30 were injured after fierce clashes broke out between the Syrian army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the city of Aleppo on Monday. The violence came as high-level talks continue over plans to integrate the SDF into Syria’s state institutions, a key step in implementing a nationwide ceasefire agreement reached on March 10.
The fighting marks one of the most serious confrontations between the two sides in recent months. The SDF, a powerful non-governmental military force primarily controlling northeastern Syria, has been working to negotiate its role within the country’s administrative and military structures. The clashes have raised concerns about the stability of these talks, especially with a looming deadline for implementing the March agreement.
Escalation in Aleppo: Syrian Army and SDF Clashes Affect Civilians
Local authorities reported that SDF forces shelled certain neighborhoods in Aleppo, killing at least two civilians and injuring eight others. The SDF said that government-affiliated factions, including the Syrian army, launched mortar and heavy-weapon attacks on SDF-held neighborhoods, killing at least one civilian and injuring 23 people, including six security personnel.
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Both sides have accused each other of starting the clashes. The Syrian army stated that its troops were responding to SDF fire that targeted residential areas, army positions, and security deployment points within government-controlled zones. Meanwhile, the SDF claimed that the Syrian army initiated attacks on their territories, leading to civilian casualties.
Later in the day, both sides announced that they had paused their attacks. The SDF stated that the ceasefire came “in response to ongoing de-escalation contacts,” suggesting that talks were still underway to avoid further escalation.
Talks and Tensions Over Integration with Syrian Army
The clashes occurred at a delicate moment, with high-level negotiations focused on bringing the SDF into Syria’s state framework. The March 10 agreement outlined a nationwide ceasefire and the integration of civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria under government control. However, officials in Damascus have criticized the SDF for not showing enough commitment to these terms.
Authorities indicated that a proposal had been submitted to advance the integration process, and the government is reviewing the SDF’s response. Turkish officials also emphasized the importance of dialogue. During a visit to Damascus, Turkey’s Foreign Minister highlighted that integrating the SDF through reconciliation and discussion is essential for maintaining Syria’s stability. He warned that pursuing alternative paths could compromise the country’s security.
Turkey has long opposed the SDF, seeing it as linked to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which it considers a terrorist organization. At the same time, the SDF has received support from the United States, including training and military assistance, especially in the fight against the Islamic State group. This complex network of alliances and opposition has made the integration talks sensitive and challenging, particularly involving the Syrian army.
Impact on Civilians and Local Areas
The clashes have directly affected the lives of Aleppo residents. Civilians caught in the crossfire suffered injuries and, in some cases, fatal consequences. Neighborhoods were hit by shelling and mortar attacks, many involving the Syrian army, causing fear and disruption in daily life. Local health authorities have been working to treat the injured, but the sudden violence has added pressure on the city’s medical facilities.
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While the fighting has paused for now, both sides remain wary of future confrontations. The SDF and Syrian army’s ability to maintain a ceasefire while continuing integration talks will be crucial in determining the safety and stability of Aleppo and other affected regions.
The deadly clash highlights the fragility of Syria’s ongoing peace efforts and the complex challenges of integrating powerful non-governmental forces into state institutions.