Violence erupted in the Syrian city of Aleppo on March 4, 2024, resulting in at least three fatalities and 31 injuries. The clashes involved troops from the Syrian Army and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This confrontation occurred as high-level negotiations aimed at integrating the SDF into Syria’s state institutions were ongoing.
The fighting took place just days ahead of a deadline stemming from a March 10 agreement in which both Damascus and the SDF committed to a nationwide ceasefire and the incorporation of civil and military entities in northeastern Syria into the state framework.
Details of the Clashes and Casualties
The Aleppo Health Directorate, which operates under the control of the Syrian government, reported that at least two civilians died and eight were injured due to SDF shelling in various neighborhoods. In contrast, the SDF claimed that one civilian was killed and 23 others were wounded, including six security personnel, from what they described as mortar and heavy-weapon assaults by “factions affiliated with the Damascus government” targeting SDF-held areas.
Both the SDF and the Syrian Defense Ministry exchanged accusations regarding the initiation of hostilities. The Defense Ministry asserted that its forces were responding to SDF fire aimed at residential areas and military deployment points in Aleppo. Following the clashes, both sides announced a cessation of attacks, attributing this to ongoing de-escalation efforts.
Political Context and International Reactions
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani expressed concerns over the SDF’s commitment to the March agreement, stating that Damascus recently proposed advancements but was awaiting the SDF’s response. This escalation of violence coincided with a visit from Hakan Fidan, the Turkish Foreign Minister, to Damascus, where he emphasized Turkey’s support for the integration talks. Fidan underscored that dialogue and reconciliation are vital for Syria’s stability, warning that alternative approaches would jeopardize security.
Turkey has historically opposed the SDF, viewing it as linked to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which Ankara considers a terrorist organization. The SDF has been a crucial ally of the United States in the fight against the Islamic State, complicating the regional dynamics surrounding the ongoing conflict.
The situation in Aleppo reflects the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the challenges facing the integration process. As the deadline approaches, the international community watches closely, concerned about the potential for further violence and instability in Syria.
