Clashes in Syria Between Kurdish SDG and HTS Raise Escalation at Turkey’s Border, Drawing Attention from Israel

Syria’s Aleppo has entered a new phase of instability as military operations and armed clashes intensify in northern Syria, raising fears of a broader escalation with direct implications for regional security and Turkey’s border security.

Against this backdrop, the possibility of a confrontation between HTS and YPG/SDG is increasingly being discussed. Such a scenario would further deepen instability in northern Syria and, in effect, prolonged unrest would align with Israel’s strategic interest in a weakened and fragmented regional landscape.

Another War on the Horizon?

Syrian Security Forces announced that an operation would be launched against SDG elements present in the area, granting civilians time to evacuate until 15:00 local time. As of 15:30, the operation officially began. To accelerate evacuations, field teams were deployed, and a curfew was imposed across the entire area.

Officials emphasized that all SDG positions in the region are considered legitimate military targets. Prior to the operation, additional troops and military equipment were transferred to the area.

To ensure the safe evacuation of civilians, two humanitarian corridors were opened. A large number of civilians reportedly left the area through the Al Abaritz and Al Zuhor crossing points.

Fighting Had Been Ongoing for Days

Over the past two days, regular clashes had been taking place between the Syrian army and SDG forces in and around the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah neighborhoods of Aleppo, where SDG presence is known to be concentrated. SDG elements were reported to have targeted neighborhood access points using mortar fire.

Following these developments, the Syrian army surrounded the area and implemented security measures around the neighborhoods. Although the clashes initially remained limited to the outskirts, they gradually escalated into intense urban fighting.

Due to the ongoing violence, schools and public services across Aleppo were temporarily suspended. According to AFP, at least nine people lost their lives during the clashes.

The decision by Syrian Security Forces to designate the area as a legitimate target indicates that heavy weapons may be used in the operation. However, the scope and duration of the military action have not yet been officially announced.

Keywords: #Syria #Aleppo #NorthernSyria #TurkeyBorderSecurity #SDG #YPG #HTS #SyrianConflict #MiddleEastSecurity #CrossBorderRisk #UrbanWarfare