Residents have begun returning to a disputed area in Aleppo, Syria after recent violent clashes between government forces and Kurdish-led forces. The conflict erupted in Kurdish neighborhoods following stalled negotiations on integrating the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national army. Security forces have gained control over some areas previously held by the SDF.
The confrontations marked the fiercest fighting since the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, resulting in 23 fatalities and displacing over 140,000 individuals. Kurdish fighters have retreated to northeastern Syria, vowing to continue combat operations after evacuating the injured and civilians in what they termed a “partial ceasefire.”
On Sunday, a sense of tranquility returned to the neighborhood as government security forces escorted journalists through the war-torn region, showcasing the destruction at Khalid al-Fajer Hospital and a military site targeted by government troops. Allegations flew between the SDF and Damascus regarding the hospital’s use for military purposes.
Residents expressed their desire to return home, with Syrian Civil Defence teams working to clear improvised mines left by Kurdish forces. Entry for returning residents is contingent on the complete clearance of these hazards, evoking memories of the prolonged civil war displacement.
The situation remains fluid, with a plea for normalcy echoing through the streets of Aleppo as the community rebuilds amidst the aftermath of conflict.