Conflicts Between the Syrian Army and the SDF and Limited Operations in Aleppo (2026)

Conflict Between the Syrian Army and the SDF in Aleppo and Limited Operation (2026), 6–9 January 2026, covers the military clashes that occurred in the center of Aleppo between the Syrian Army and elements of the terrorist organization PKK/YPG, operating under the name “Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF),” as well as the limited operation launched in response to these clashes.

The events were concentrated in the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud, Ashrafiyya, Beni Zayd, Meydan, Surian and Bustan al-Basha. The clashes began on 6 January 2026 with attacks by the SDF against civilian settlements in the city center.

On 8 January 2026 the Syrian Army launched limited point operations against PKK/YPG positions in Aleppo. With the start of the operation, a curfew was declared in the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud, Ashrafiyya and Beni Zayd. By 9 January 2026 Syrian Army units had largely secured control over the neighborhoods of Ashrafiyya and Beni Zayd. Following this development, a process was initiated to evacuate members of the terrorist organization to the east of the Euphrates River.

The Syrian Ministry of Defense granted the group’s elements a time window between 03:00 and 09:00 to leave the area and stated that they would be permitted to exit armed only with individual light weapons. The evacuation process was conducted under the supervision of the Syrian Army and in coordination with internal security units.

During the attacks and the operation, official institutions in Aleppo ceased operations, education at schools and universities was suspended, and flights at Aleppo International Airport were halted. According to official Syrian government data, at least nine people were killed and 55 injured during the four days from the start of the operation until the completion of the evacuation. During the same period, 142,000 civilians were evacuated to safe areas. According to the Aleppo Central Intervention Committee, 80 transport vehicles were deployed and a total of 12 temporary shelters were established in Aleppo, Azaz and Afrin. The process concluded on 9 January 2026 with the Syrian Army having largely regained control of the center of Aleppo and SDF elements being relocated to the northeast regions.

Beginning of the Attacks (6 January 2026)

Attacks in the Center of Aleppo

On 6 January 2026, elements of the terrorist organization PKK/YPG launched coordinated attacks targeting the center of Aleppo. According to information reported by the Syrian state television channel Al-Ihbariyya, four people were killed during the day’s attacks, including three civilians and one security officer, and 15 civilians, including nine children, were injured.

During the attacks, two women were killed in the Meydan neighborhood and one child was injured. On the same day at midday, in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood, an armed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attack targeting Syrian Army positions resulted in the death of one soldier.

Additionally, the PKK/YPG terrorist organization launched an attack on Zahi Azrak Hospital in the Bustan al-Basha neighborhood. In the evening, the Al-Kalima School in the New Surian neighborhood became the target of artillery fire. It was reported that no students were present in the school during the attack.

Administrative and Transportation Measures in the City

Following the attacks, the Aleppo–Azaz road was closed to traffic for security reasons. Aleppo Governor Azzam Garip, in a statement on his social media account, said, “Due to the current situation and the Syrian Democratic Forces' bombing of hospitals and institutions, official working hours will be suspended tomorrow.” On the same day, all flights at Aleppo International Airport were suspended for 24 hours, and it was announced that flights would be redirected to Damascus International Airport.

Conflict Zones

By the evening of 6 January 2026, the Syrian Army had sent dozens of tanks, armored personnel carriers and reinforcements to the areas around Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya. During the same hours, sounds of heavy weapons fire were heard around Ashrafiyya and Sheikh Maksud. It was reported that official institutions in the city center had halted operations, education at schools had been suspended, and the Syrian Army had begun preparations for the evacuation of civilians.

Expansion of the Conflict (7 January 2026)

On 7 January 2026, early in the morning, elements of the terrorist organization PKK/YPG initiated a new bombardment targeting civilian areas in the northern neighborhoods of Aleppo: Sheikh Maksud, Ashrafiyya and Surian. Artillery fire was heavily directed at these neighborhoods during the attacks.

According to reports published by SANA, “The SDF organization is preventing civilians living in Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya from reaching the two humanitarian corridors opened by the Syrian Army for safe passage.”

The Aleppo Directorate of Health announced that four civilians were killed and 18 injured as a result of the attacks. According to the Syrian official news agency, three civilians were killed in the attacks on 6 January and one additional civilian was killed in the morning attacks on 7 January, bringing the total civilian death toll to four.

Humanitarian Corridors and Evacuation Operations

The Syrian Army declared the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya as closed military zones and opened two humanitarian corridors on the same day. These corridors were established in the areas of Al-Avarid and Al-Zuhur Street. The Syrian Civil Defense announced at 12:30 on 7 January that “850 civilians have been evacuated from Aleppo as of 12:30.” The evacuation operations were conducted in coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent.

Obstruction of Civilian Movement and Firing

According to reports in the Syrian press, Alikhbariya TV stated that “SDF forces opened fire on civilians attempting to leave Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya.” The same report indicated that the SDF was preventing civilians from reaching the humanitarian corridors opened by the army and that the humanitarian corridor on Al-Zuhur Street had come under artillery fire.

On the morning of 7 January, the Syrian Army engaged in clashes with SDF elements along the Castello and al-Shayhan lines. On the same day, SANA reported that “the Syrian Army responded to fire originating from positions around Sheikh Maksud.” State media also reported that the army had designated SDF positions in Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya as “legitimate targets.”

Military and Administrative Measures by the Syrian Army

Declaration of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya as “Closed Military Zones”

On 7 January 2026, the Syrian Army Operations Command announced that the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya in Aleppo would be declared “closed military zones” as of 15:00. The statement issued by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) indicated that this decision was taken for the safety of civilians. According to the statement, civilians living near the two areas were requested to leave through designated corridors and to stay away from SDF positions.

Designation of Positions as “Legitimate Targets”

The Syrian official news agency SANA reported that the Syrian Army Operations Command had designated SDF positions in Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya as “legitimate targets.” The report stated, “The Syrian Army, noting that the SDF has carried out massacres across the governorate, has declared SDF positions in Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya as ‘legitimate targets.’”

The Syrian Army’s statement further indicated that “the two neighborhoods would be declared closed military zones after noon, a complete movement ban would be enforced, and civilians would be required to stay away from SDF positions.”

Ministry of Information Statement

On 7 January 2026, the Syrian Ministry of Information stated, “In response to the ongoing attacks by the Syrian Democratic Forces against civilian settlements, main roads and security forces, the Syrian Army will launch a limited military operation in Aleppo.” The statement emphasized that the operation would be conducted based on a local decision and at the request of the people of Aleppo, with the objectives of “halting ongoing artillery, sniper and UAV attacks, restoring security, reopening the Aleppo–Azaz road, and protecting civilians.”

Legal Framework of Military Operations

The Syrian Ministry of Information’s statement emphasized that the operation would be conducted in accordance with international law. It stated, “Military activities will be carried out in compliance with international law, with priority given to the evacuation of civilians. The operation will target armed groups responsible for the attacks, not civilians.”

Ministry of Interior and Security Measures

On 7 January, the Syrian Ministry of Interior stated that security forces had taken emergency measures in areas affected by the clashes “to protect civilians following bombardments targeting civilian neighborhoods.” The ministry announced that, as part of these measures, security cordons had been established in affected areas, evacuations had been organized, and humanitarian corridors had been opened.

In its official briefing, the Syrian Army stated that the primary objectives of the operation were neutralizing sources of attack, securing humanitarian corridors, and completing the evacuation of civilians. It further emphasized that the operation was being implemented on the basis of a “local decision” and initiated at the direct request of the people of Aleppo.

Developments on January 8

Evacuation Process and Humanitarian Corridors

According to official Syrian sources, on January 7, 2026, humanitarian corridors were temporarily closed due to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) refusing to allow civilians to leave their neighborhoods; they were reopened the following morning following a decision by the Aleppo Governorate.

On January 8, 2026, the Aleppo Governorate announced the reopening of two humanitarian corridors in the Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyye neighborhoods, which are under the control of the PKK/YPG, operating under the name Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), to facilitate the evacuation of civilians.

The governorate’s statement specified that the corridors on Al-Awared and Zuhur Street would be used to allow civilians to reach safe zones within Aleppo city, with evacuations taking place between 10:00 and 13:00. The statement further noted that the corridors had been reopened in coordination with the Syrian Army and that the safe passage of civilians was the primary objective.

The Syrian Arab Army Operations Command, in a statement issued the same day, stated: “The army is working to ensure the safety of civilians attempting to escape the group’s pressure in the aforementioned neighborhoods.”

According to information reported by CNN Türk from the region, the Syrian Army closed all entry and exit points to neighborhoods under YPG control, permitting only the evacuation of civilians. As a result, civilians wishing to leave Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyye neighborhoods were able to reach safe zones via the reopened corridors.

On the same day, thousands of families were relocated to mosques and temporary shelters established in central Aleppo. The majority of these families consisted of women and children. Meryem al-Basha, who left Sheikh Maksud neighborhood, described the evacuation process: “I have three children, all of whom were terrified... This morning we were told there was a safe exit, so we came here.”

Curfew and Security Measures

The Syrian Army Operations Committee declared a curfew in the Sheikh Maksud, Ashrafiyye and Beni Zayd neighborhoods of Aleppo, effective from 13:30 until further notice on January 8, 2026.

The decree stated that the curfew would remain in effect indefinitely and that all movement within the area had been suspended. The public was urged to stay away from all PKK/YPG positions and avoid leaving the safe routes designated by the army. The statement emphasized that the curfew was imposed to ensure civilian safety and the smooth conduct of the evacuation process.

According to CNN Türk’s correspondent in Aleppo, entry and exit points to the affected neighborhoods were completely closed, with access granted only to Syrian Army personnel. Civilian departures from the neighborhoods were being conducted under controlled conditions and under the supervision of security forces. In this context, additional security measures were implemented across the city, military patrols on major arteries were increased, and civilian movement into the operational zone was halted.

Actions by the Terrorist Organization PKK/YPG Against Civilians

The Syrian Army Operations Command, in its statement on January 8, 2026, reported that the SDF had obstructed civilians’ access to evacuation corridors and opened fire on those attempting to leave. The statement specified that the group had targeted the humanitarian corridors on Al-Awared and Zuhur Street, preventing numerous civilians from leaving the area.

The same statement clarified that the army had not yet launched any offensive operations and had prioritized ensuring the safe exit of civilians. The Command emphasized that operational preparations were ongoing and that its sole targets were “armed positions.”

On the same day, the Syrian Army issued an official warning to the SDF, stating: “The Syrian Arab Army Operations Command has warned the SDF not to target civilians attempting to leave neighborhoods via the humanitarian corridors announced by the Aleppo Governorate.”

Operational Preparations and Public Advisory

On the morning of January 8, the Syrian Army Operations Committee issued a public advisory stating: “The locations of targets in the Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyye neighborhoods will be shared through Syrian media channels and platforms.” The advisory indicated that these targets were being used by the PKK/YPG terrorist organization as “military headquarters and launch positions.”

The Syrian news agency SANA published maps on the same day identifying five target locations and called on civilians to immediately vacate these areas. Three of the five designated targets were located in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood and two in the Ashrafiyye neighborhood.

Commencement of Point Operations

8 January 2026 at midday, the Syrian Army launched point operations against elements of the terrorist organization PKK/YPG, which uses the name SDG, in the Aleppo neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya, which are under its occupation.

Prior to the commencement of the operation, the Syrian Army Operations Committee identified the target areas in Aleppo and stated, “The locations of the targeted points in the Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya neighborhoods will be shared through Syrian news channels and platforms.” The same statement indicated that these points were being used by the PKK/YPG as military headquarters and launch positions.

Syria’s official news agency SANA reported that the army shared on a map five target locations belonging to the PKK/YPG in Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya and called on civilians to immediately vacate the area. Three of these targets were located in Sheikh Maksud and two in Ashrafiyya; the army demanded the evacuation of these areas for civilian safety.

As the operation commenced at midday, the Syrian Army began striking the pre-designated targets, for which civilians had been urged to evacuate, with artillery fire. After the completion of civilian evacuation procedures in the neighborhoods, military positions belonging to the PKK/YPG were targeted. During the initial phase of the operation, mutual clashes occurred along the Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya fronts.

Establishment of Control in Ashrafiyya and Beni Zayd Neighborhoods

Army units advanced into the interior areas from the south, west and north after breaching the first defensive lines of Ashrafiyya Neighborhood. In an official statement issued that evening, it was stated that “The majority of Ashrafiyya Neighborhood has come under control.” Heavy weapons including artillery and rockets were used in the clashes in the area.

Syria’s official agency SANA announced that four Syrian journalists were wounded during attacks on the Ashrafiyya area. Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Garib stated, “Internal security forces are preparing to deploy in these areas to fully secure the two neighborhoods and ensure the safe return of displaced civilians to their homes.”

Following advances in Ashrafiyya, army units entered Beni Zayd Neighborhood and gained substantial control over the area. Search and clearance operations were launched to counter the threat of mines and improvised explosive devices. Clashes continued in places along the Sheikh Maksud front.

The Aleppo Governorate’s Internal Security Command declared a curfew across Ashrafiyya, Sheikh Maksud, Beni Zayd, Surian, Hulluk and Meydan neighborhoods until a further announcement, and established temporary military control zones to ensure civilian safety.

During the same period, the U.S. Department of State, in its statement on the developments, said, “The United States is closely monitoring the situation in Syria. We call on all parties to exercise restraint.” It urged the parties to “focus on building a peaceful and stable Syria.”

The U.S. statement also emphasized that it supports the dialogue process aimed at implementing the 10 March Agreement between the Syrian government and SDG, and noted that Ambassador Tom Barrack of Ankara is continuing his mediation role in these talks.

Ceasefire and Withdrawal Process (9 January 2026)

Announcement of Temporary Ceasefire

On 9 January 2026, the Syrian Ministry of Defense announced a temporary ceasefire following operations conducted in the northern neighborhoods of Aleppo. The ministry stated that this step was taken to end the military situation and reestablish the rule of law and official institutions.

In its statement, the ministry specified that the ceasefire would come into effect after midnight, starting at 03:00, with the aim of ensuring maximum care for civilian safety and preventing any new military escalation within populated areas. It further noted that armed elements within these neighborhoods were required to depart the area by 03:00, and the designated timeframe for this withdrawal would end on Friday at 09:00.

The Ministry of Defense emphasized that armed elements leaving the area would be permitted to carry only light personal weapons, while the Syrian Arab Army would ensure their safe escort and secure passage to regions in the northeastern part of the country.

The ministry stated that the measures taken were intended to fully end the military situation, restore the rule of law and official institutions, and enable displaced citizens to return safely and stably to their homes and resume normal life.

The statement concluded with an appeal to all parties to strictly adhere to the established timeframe, with the goal of ensuring everyone’s safety and preventing any contact on the ground. The process of organizing the departure of armed groups from the neighborhoods toward northeastern Syria would be carried out by the Internal Security Forces in coordination with the Syrian Army Operations Committee.

Withdrawal and Relocation Plan

As of the morning of 9 January, the Ministry of Defense announced that members of the terrorist organization PKK/YPG would be relocated to northeastern regions. The Aleppo Media Director, citing the Ministry of Defense, stated that SDG elements would be transported later that day, accompanied only by light personal weapons, to the northeastern regions of Syria. According to a statement by the Aleppo Emergency Intervention Committee, relevant state institutions are preparing to enter the Eshrefiyye and Sheikh Maksud neighborhoods to provide services to citizens and ensure security in the area.

The statement indicated that after the completion of security operations, the entire area would be brought under full control, mines would be cleared, and roads reopened. It emphasized that civilian returns would be coordinated only after this process was completed. Security authorities urged citizens not to enter the affected areas until the process was finalized and to strictly comply with all issued safety directives.

SDG Evacuation and Ceasefire Process (9 January 2026)

As of 9 January 2026, following the Syrian Army’s successful operations in Aleppo that resulted in substantial control over the Eshrefiyye and Beni Zeyd neighborhoods, an “evacuation” process was initiated to transfer members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDG) terrorist organization east of the Euphrates River. It was announced that SDG members would cross east of the Euphrates River carrying only light personal weapons.

The Syrian Army has begun operations to clear explosives and mines placed by the terrorist organization in the area and announced that civilian returns would be permitted once these operations are completed. Authorities issued a public warning urging citizens to strictly follow all official directives and not to return to their homes prematurely.

Tension in Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood and Establishment of New Humanitarian Corridor (9 January 2026)

As of the morning of 9 January 2026, numerous buses intended to transport terrorist organization YPG/SDG members leaving Aleppo began gathering at the Leramun Junction in northern Aleppo. These vehicles were reported to be positioned at the entrances to Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood for the purpose of evacuating organization members east of the Euphrates River.

However, despite the evacuation agreement, some organization members opened fire on security forces affiliated with the Syrian Army. According to reports from Anadolu Agency correspondents, armed elements at the Eshrefiyye–Sheikh Maksud axis, particularly around the Cendul Junction, fired upon security forces. No casualties or injuries were reported in the attack.

A military source speaking to the Syrian official news agency SANA stated that certain elements of the organization had refused to withdraw from Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood and continued their attacks. The source described these actions as attempts to undermine the evacuation agreement.

The Syrian Army announced that on 9 January, a new humanitarian corridor would be opened between 16:00 and 18:00 to facilitate the evacuation of civilians remaining in Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood. In a statement to the Syrian official news agency SANA, it was confirmed that civilians would be permitted to move to safe areas of Aleppo during this time window and were urged to use the corridor.

The statement also affirmed that YPG/SDG members who surrendered their weapons would be guaranteed safety. A military source speaking to the Syrian state television channel Al-Ikhbariya noted that the organization had entrenched itself in Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood and that certain groups had attempted to sabotage the agreement by targeting Syrian forces.

Resumption of Operations

As part of the evacuation process that began on 9 January 2026, some members of the YPG/SDG who were expected to leave Aleppo have opened fire on Syrian security forces. The clash occurred at the Cendul Junction on the Eshrefiyye–Sheikh Maksud line. No deaths or injuries have been reported from the attack.

A military source speaking to Syria’s official news agency SANA stated that certain elements of the group refused to withdraw from the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood and continued their attacks. The source indicated that these actions were attempts to undermine the evacuation agreement. The report included the statement: “Some elements are refusing to withdraw from Sheikh Maksud neighborhood and are continuing their attacks.”

On the same day, the Syrian Army announced the establishment of a new humanitarian corridor open between 16:00 and 18:00 to ensure the safe evacuation of civilians remaining in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood. The announcement stated that civilians would be permitted to move to safe areas of Aleppo during this time frame. It was also confirmed that members of the group who surrender their weapons would be guaranteed safety.

A military source speaking to Syria’s state television Al-Ikhbariya stated that forces had determined that the remaining group members in the neighborhood were “attempting to sabotage the agreement and target Syrian forces.” On 9 January 2026, the Syrian Army launched new point operations in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood in northern Aleppo. This decision followed the violation of the announced temporary ceasefire agreement regarding the evacuation.

According to information reported by Syria’s news agency SANA and the Anadolu Agency, the army’s operations were conducted using heavy weapons from multiple directions surrounding the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood. AA correspondents reported in their field updates that “the sound of heavy weapons had intensified.”

On the same day, Syria’s official state television Al-Ikhbariya announced that the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood had been declared a military closed zone. The army stated that a curfew would be enforced from 18:30 until a further announcement, urging civilians to stay away from windows, move to lower floors, and avoid approaching YPG/SDG positions.

Control Status in Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood

The Syrian Army stated on 9 January that operations in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood were proceeding “slowly and carefully.” The Ministry of Defense’s statement used the phrase: “Operations are being conducted slowly and with extreme caution because the YPG/SDG is using civilians as human shields.”

While emphasizing that operations were being carried out carefully to avoid civilian harm, the army reported that it had seized heavy and medium-caliber weapons in the neighborhood. According to SANA, the weapons found in the neighborhood included rocket launchers and machine guns.

On 10 January 2026, Syria’s official news agency SANA reported that the Syrian Arab Army had completed clearance operations in more than 90 percent of the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood. The report stated: “The Syrian Arab Army has completed clearance operations in more than 90 percent of the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood.”

In addition, the Syrian Ministry of Defense called on remaining YPG/SDG elements in the area to surrender their weapons at the nearest military position, assuring them that their personal safety would be guaranteed. The statement included the phrase: “The only option left for the terrorists is to come to the nearest military position and surrender with their weapons.”

Final Status in the Neighborhood and State Control Announcement

On 10 January 2026, the Syrian Army announced that operations in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood in northern Aleppo had been completed. The written statement from the army declared that “full control has been restored in the city” and that “the last neighborhood under the control of the terrorist organization YPG/SDG has been liberated.”

The statement urged civilians to “remain in their homes and avoid going outside, as elements of the SDG and PKK terrorist organizations are hiding among the population.” In conjunction with this appeal, civilians were requested to contact military forces in the neighborhood only in emergencies or upon detection of terrorist elements.

On the same day, it was reported that intermittent loud explosions were heard from the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood. These explosions were assessed as resulting from either the detonation of booby-trapped bombs left by the terrorist organization or ongoing clashes.

Completion of Military Operations

On 10 January 2026, the Syrian Army Operations Command announced that all military operations in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood of Aleppo had been halted at 15:00 local time. It was reported that YPG/SDG elements stationed at Yasin Hospital in the neighborhood would be transported by bus to the town of Tabqa after their weapons were confiscated. The army also stated that it would begin transferring all public facilities in the neighborhood to state institutions and would gradually withdraw from Sheikh Maksud streets.

Syria’s Minister of Information, Hamza Mustafa, told the official news agency SANA: “Aleppo, Syria’s economic capital, was under the daily threat of the SDG, and the national media followed a professional path by objectively covering the events with transparency and information.”

Attack on the Governorate Building

According to a report by Syria’s state television Al-Ikhbariya citing military sources, groups withdrawing from Aleppo have targeted certain neighborhoods in the city using drones launched from the Deyr Hafir region to the east. It was reported that the Syrian Army intercepted these drones and prevented the attacks.

On 10 January 2026, new security incidents occurred in the city when a suicide unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacked the Aleppo Governorate Building. The attack resulted in the shattering of the building’s windows and the deployment of numerous security units to the scene. The AA correspondent reported that governorate staff had been evacuated and that Syrian authorities had not yet issued any statement regarding casualties.

Syria’s state television Al-Ikhbariya reported that the attack occurred immediately after a press conference held at the governorate building attended by Syria’s Minister of Information Hamza Mustafa, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Kabavat, and Aleppo Governor Azzam el-Garib.

Transfer of Evacuated YPG/SDG Elements to Tabqa

On 10 January 2026, a group of members of the terrorist organization YPG/SDG, cornered during operations in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood of Aleppo, were evacuated from the city under an agreed evacuation deal. According to information from the Syrian Ministry of Defense, YPG/SDG elements stationed at the Yasin Hospital in Sheikh Maksud were transported by bus to the district of Tabqa after agreeing to evacuate.

It was reported that during their time in the hospital, these groups had used civilians inside as human shields. The district of Tabqa is located on the western bank of the Euphrates River and remains under the control of the YPG/SDG.

Suspension of Air Traffic at Aleppo International Airport

On 10 January 2026, the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority announced that air traffic at Aleppo International Airport had been suspended until a further announcement, following attacks by YPG/SDG members targeting residential areas in northern Aleppo.

The statement issued by the Syrian News Agency (SANA) stated: “In light of current developments, Aleppo International Airport will remain closed to air traffic until a further announcement to ensure the safety of passengers and crew and to guarantee the security of operational procedures.” The same statement clarified that this decision was a precautionary and temporary measure to be implemented until technical and security assessments completed in coordination with relevant authorities.

Terrorist Organization YPG/SDG Interference with Aleppo’s Water Resources

On 10 January 2026, the Syrian Ministry of Energy announced that water pumping operations at the El-Babiri Water Station in northern rural Aleppo had been halted and that the YPG/SDG terrorist organization was responsible for this disruption.

The ministry’s written statement noted that the El-Babiri Station serves as the primary water source for the city of Aleppo and surrounding rural areas. It stated that the cutoff of water flow was carried out “under direct orders from elements affiliated with the SDG.” The statement emphasized that this deliberate interruption had caused direct damage affecting the entire governorate, negatively impacting public life and access to essential services. It further declared that “targeting critical infrastructure and depriving civilians of basic rights constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law and universal norms.”

The Ministry of Energy called on relevant authorities and international organizations to hold those responsible accountable for these actions affecting the safety and welfare of millions of citizens. It stated that all available resources would be mobilized to restore water flow and ensure the continuity of services. The El-Babiri Water Station is located on the banks of the Euphrates River between Kafse and Meskene, east of Aleppo.

Syrian Ministry of Interior Statements on Control and Security

Syrian Ministry of Interior Spokesperson Nureddin el-Baba stated on 10 January 2026, in an address broadcast by Syria’s state television Al-Ikhbariya, that control had been largely restored in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood in northern Aleppo. Baba said: “The meticulous operations in the Eshrefiyye and Sheikh Maksud neighborhoods have reached their final stage; control has been largely restored in the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood.”

The ministry spokesperson announced that efforts had begun to neutralize landmines left behind by the YPG/SDG terrorist organization to ensure public safety and protect property. The statement noted that mine clearance units are working to eliminate threats to returning residents.

Baba described YPG/SDG elements as “victims of ideological approaches that have proven unsuccessful over time and are not Syrian.” He added that as the circle around the terrorist organization tightened, it resorted to uncontrolled attacks, targeting homes, mosques, and even press conferences attended by government officials.

Spokesperson Baba stated that the state’s path in Aleppo is clear, emphasizing that “everyone who lays down their arms will be welcomed.” The same statement stressed that operations in the Sheikh Maksud and Eshrefiyye neighborhoods were a necessary response, as the terrorist organization forced Syria into this intervention. He emphasized that the state had preferred a diplomatic solution under the 10 March Agreement to protect civilians. El-Baba also stated that the Syrian Army, internal security forces, and intelligence units are fighting on three fronts and announced that “the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood will be fully cleared within a few hours.”

The Demilitarization of the Operation and Statements

Statements by Syrian Presidential Advisor Ahmed Muvaffak Zeydan

Ahmed Muvaffak Zeydan, Media Advisor to Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara, stated in a statement on 10 January 2026 that the operation conducted in Aleppo was “an important lesson for those investing in chaos”.

In a social media post, Zeydan assessed the Syrian security forces’ entry into the Sheikh Maksud neighborhood of Aleppo and their clearance of SDG elements, including those affiliated with the terrorist organization PKK/YPG.

In his statement, he noted that he congratulated President Ahmed al-Shara, the Syrian army, security forces, and state civil personnel. Zeydan emphasized that the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud, Ashrafiyya and Beni Zayd have returned under the control of the Syrian state. He underscored that this development demonstrated “the importance of trust in the state and its institutions,” calling it “an instructive message and lesson for all who align themselves with chaos.”

Zeydan also stated that Syria will continue to serve as a model for coexistence in the region and affirmed that Kurds in Syria are one of the fundamental elements of the unity of the Syrian state.

Joint Statement by Jordan and the United States

On 10 January 2026, the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a joint statement following consultations with the United States. The statement noted that Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met in the capital Amman with the U.S. Ambassador to Ankara and Special Representative for Syria, Tom Barrack.

During the meeting, the joint coordination and cooperation process aimed at supporting the Syrian government’s efforts to safeguard the country’s security, sovereignty, unity, stability, and the rights of all its citizens was discussed.

The meeting also called for the immediate implementation of the 10 March Agreement between the Syrian government and YPG/SDG, and emphasized the importance of continuing joint efforts to implement the roadmap designed to end the crisis in Suwayda and stabilize southern Syria.

Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Assessment of the Operation

On 10 January 2026, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a written statement regarding the military operations in Aleppo. The statement described the operation targeting YPG/SDG in the city of Aleppo as “a limited security operation aimed at restoring public order and eliminating armed entities operating outside state control”.

The ministry’s statement emphasized that the operation did not target the Kurdish population, an inseparable part of Aleppo’s social fabric, nor its active partners within national institutions. The same text clarified that the state’s actions were of a “law enforcement operation” nature, with limited scope and objectives, and that the operation was conducted solely in the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya.

The statement further indicated that these operations were carried out following repeated violations of security arrangements agreed upon with YPG/SDG elements, in order to protect civilians and restore public order.

Syrian Army’s Statement Regarding YPG/SDG and Drone Attacks

Syria’s official news agency SANA published a statement issued by the Syrian Army Operations Command. The statement claimed that the terrorist organization YPG/SDG had entered a new phase of military escalation by targeting Aleppo city, its civilian institutions, mosques, and facilities with more than ten Iranian-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The attacks were reported to have caused civilian injuries and significant structural damage. The statement indicated that in response, the Syrian army targeted the launch sites of the UAVs and destroyed YPG/SDG-owned tracked and wheeled heavy vehicles. The number of destroyed vehicles was stated to be released later, and the army’s action was described as “the first response to the recent attacks.” The statement concluded with the assertion that “the army’s military operations will not halt at this point; subsequent stages of the response will be carried out at the appropriate time and location.”

Total Casualties from YPG/SDG Attacks in Aleppo

Health authorities in Aleppo, in a statement issued on 10 January 2026, provided information on casualties resulting from YPG/SDG attacks on residential areas of the city since 6 January. According to the statement, 23 people lost their lives in these attacks, including one child and four women.

The same statement reported that 104 people were injured, including many children and women. It was noted that some of the injured were in critical condition, raising concerns that the death toll may rise. Health authorities confirmed that the attacks occurred in civilian areas and that numerous injured persons remained in intensive care units in hospitals.

Resumption of Daily Life in the De-terrorized Sheikh Maksud Neighborhood

On 11 January 2026, it was reported that life in Aleppo’s Sheikh Maksud neighborhood was gradually returning to normal following the completion of the operation. Some families had returned to their homes, but daily life had not yet fully resumed.

It was noted that most shops remained closed and many buildings had sustained severe damage. It was expected that life in the neighborhood would gradually return to normal as security measures were strengthened.

According to Anadolu Agency’s field report dated 11 January, after the completion of cleanup and security operations in Sheikh Maksud, infrastructure repairs would begin, civil institutions would resume operations, and urban transportation routes would be reopened progressively.

Statements by Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Garib and Syrian Energy Minister Muhammad Bashir

Aleppo Governor Azzam al-Garib, in a statement on 11 January 2026, indicated that security and stability were being gradually restored in the city following the Syrian army’s targeted operations against YPG/SDG. In remarks to the Syrian official news agency SANA, Garib said, “The period of anxiety in our city is behind us. Today, Aleppo is strong, protected by the unity of its people and their will, and secure.”

The governor stated that security was being gradually restored in the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya, that peace and safety had been reestablished in the city, and that state institutions were operating continuously across all neighborhoods to enable the population to return to normal life. Garib affirmed that “Aleppo is secure today, and with God’s permission, its tomorrows will be even more stable,” underscoring that the security process remains ongoing.

On the same day, Syrian Energy Minister Muhammad Bashir announced that water pumping operations from the El-Babiri Water Station in eastern rural Aleppo had resumed after a brief interruption and that water had been restored to the city.

In his written statement, Minister Bashir explained that water pumping at the El-Babiri station had been temporarily halted for a few hours, and that after necessary interventions were completed, water flow to Aleppo and its surroundings had been restored.

Full Control of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya Neighborhoods

According to information published on 11 January 2026 by the Syrian official news agency SANA and Anadolu Agency (AA), the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafiyya have come entirely under the control of the Syrian army.

According to information from Syrian state television Al-Ihbariyye, citing security sources, the YPG/SDG group that exited Sheikh Maksud was identified as the last group of terrorists leaving Aleppo. Under the evacuation agreement, this group was transported by a convoy of six buses and seven ambulances to the Tabqa district via the “Avared” evacuation point. The convoy was reported to have entered the road to Aleppo International Airport before heading toward Tabqa across the Euphrates River. That same evening, it was learned that a group of YPG/SDG personnel stationed at Yasin Hospital in Sheikh Maksud had also been evacuated to the same area. Thus, the de facto presence of YPG/SDG in Aleppo ended, and state control was reestablished across the city’s neighborhoods.