The Syrian army has launched a new military operation in Aleppo, focusing on areas controlled by Kurdish-led forces, as authorities began a large-scale evacuation process in the Sheikh Maqsoud district, according to Syrian state media and local officials.
Residents were warned to leave the area during a specified time window on Friday, and loud explosions were reported across several parts of the city as fighting intensified.
Evacuations Underway Ahead of Operation
Syrian authorities said buses were sent to evacuate people from Sheikh Maqsoud before the operation began. However, the evacuation process faced disruptions, and clashes were reported near the area, according to official statements.
By Friday evening, the district was placed under a curfew and declared a restricted military zone.
Local officials said tens of thousands of civilians across Aleppo have already been moved to safer areas in recent weeks as fighting in and around the city continues.
Clashes and Security Developments
Syrian state media reported that the army carried out targeted strikes on positions inside Aleppo, while security sources said fighting was ongoing in several neighborhoods.
Officials also said dozens of fighters had been detained in recent days after attempting to leave the area or surrender, though these claims could not be independently verified.
Background to the Tensions
The escalation follows weeks of growing tensions in northern Syria, particularly in Aleppo, where multiple armed groups operate in close proximity.
According to Syrian officials, clashes have continued since early January, despite earlier de-escalation understandings aimed at reducing violence in the city.
Civilian areas have been affected, and casualties have been reported, with humanitarian organizations warning of increasing displacement and pressure on already strained local infrastructure.
International Attention
As attention turned to the humanitarian situation, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa visited Damascus, where they met with Syria’s president to discuss reconstruction and regional stability.
In a statement posted on social media, von der Leyen said Europe would support Syria’s recovery efforts, emphasizing the need for stability and long-term rebuilding after years of conflict.
Humanitarian Impact
Local authorities estimate that more than 140,000 people in and around Aleppo have been displaced in recent weeks due to the fighting.
Aid groups continue to warn that further escalation could worsen the humanitarian situation, particularly for civilians still trapped in contested areas.
A Fragile Situation
The situation in Aleppo remains fluid and highly volatile, with ongoing military activity and continued evacuation efforts.
Observers say the latest developments highlight how fragile security conditions remain in northern Syria, even years after the main phase of the civil war ended.
