First responders enter devastated Aleppo neighborhood after days of deadly fighting
Residents have begun to return to a contested neighborhood in Aleppo, Syria, following days of violent clashes between government forces and Kurdish-led forces. The clashes erupted in several predominantly Kurdish neighborhoods after the government and the Syrian Democratic Forces failed to reach an agreement on merging the SDF into the national army. Security forces have since gained control of some of these neighborhoods.
The fighting marked the most intense conflict since the overthrow of President Bashar Assad in December 2024. At least 23 people lost their lives and over 140,000 were displaced due to shelling and drone attacks during the five days of clashes.
Kurdish fighters have evacuated from the Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood to northeastern Syria, pledging to continue fighting after evacuating the wounded and civilians in what they termed a “partial ceasefire.” Despite the recent violence, the neighborhood appeared calm as residents began to return.
Government security forces led journalists on a tour of the devastated area, showcasing the damaged Khalid al-Fajer Hospital and a military position targeted by government forces. The SDF accused the government of repeatedly targeting the hospital before patients were evacuated, while Damascus accused the Kurdish-led group of using civilian facilities for military purposes.
Syrian Red Crescent first responders have been working to disarm improvised mines left by Kurdish forces, ensuring the safety of returning residents. Some residents expressed their desire to return home, while others were reminded of the displacement they experienced during Syria’s civil war.
The situation in the neighborhood remains tense, with ongoing efforts to clear mines and ensure the safety of returning residents. Associated Press journalist Kareem Chehayeb in Beirut contributed to this report.
