Syrian Army Orders Civilian Evacuation East of Aleppo Amid SDF Clash Fears
Date Published
Recent clashes in Aleppo displaced over 142,000 civilians last week, according to reports. The Syrian army's latest move targets areas east of the city amid SDF disputes. This highlights persistent volatility in Syria's north.
Background on Syrian-SDF Tensions
Syrian forces and the Kurdish-led SDF have clashed sporadically since a fragile ceasefire. Recent fighting in Aleppo neighborhoods like Sheikh Maqsoud forced SDF withdrawals.
Government troops reinforced rural Aleppo after accusing the SDF of regrouping. The SDF denied this and blamed Damascus for aggression.
The Evacuation Announcement
On January 14, 2026, the Syrian military declared Deir Hafer and Maskana closed zones. It urged civilians to evacuate via a corridor open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on January 15.
This
humanitarian zone
aims to protect residents from potential operations. The army called on SDF fighters to retreat east of the Euphrates River.
According to a Syrian military statement, the areas pose risks due to SDF positions. Civilians must stay away to avoid harm.
Accusations and Military Moves
A military source told Al Jazeera that the SDF destroyed three bridges linking their areas to government ones. This act followed deadly battles in Aleppo city.
The army reported Iranian-made drones launched from these zones targeting civilians in Aleppo. Reinforcements arrived to counter any SDF advances.
'The military will take all necessary measures to prevent the area from being used as a base for further attacks,' stated the Syrian Army Operations Directorate.
The SDF, in response, accused the government of violating international norms. Analysts note both sides amassed forces, raising escalation risks.
Reactions from Key Stakeholders
The U.S. expressed concern over the buildup, urging de-escalation. Kurdish officials rejected withdrawal demands, citing territorial rights.
Local residents face displacement amid fears of broader conflict. Humanitarian groups call for safe passages and aid access.
International observers, including the UN, monitor the situation closely. Reports indicate thousands may flee if fighting erupts.
Potential Impacts on Regional Stability
This front could draw in external powers like Turkey, which opposes SDF presence. Past interventions complicated Syria's landscape.
Economic strains in Aleppo worsen with disruptions to trade routes. Civilian safety remains paramount in these uncategorized conflict zones.
According to Arab News, soldiers deployed amid threats of offensives against SDF. Tensions persist despite prior ceasefires.
'Syria’s Kurds must integrate into the state,' said President Ahmed al-Sharaa, as troops moved east. This reflects broader integration challenges.
Humanitarian Concerns and Trends
Displacement trends show over 100,000 evacuated from Aleppo areas recently. Aid organizations prepare for more refugees.
The destruction of bridges limits movement, isolating communities. Experts warn of humanitarian crises if clashes intensify.
Neutral mediation could avert full-scale confrontation. Stakeholders emphasize dialogue over military action.
This evacuation order reveals Syria's fragile security and underscores the urgency for inclusive political solutions. It directly impacts civilian lives and regional dynamics in uncategorized volatile areas.
