Aleppo's Kurdish Districts Remain Restricted Amid Ceasefire, Snipers Positioned
As-salamu alaykum, dear brothers and sisters. On Wednesday, Syrian security forces blocked access to the Kurdish-majority neighborhoods of Aleppo, following a ceasefire agreed between the army and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Residents in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh were permitted to leave, but entry was not allowed, according to eyewitnesses.
The Syrian Defence Minister, Murhaf Abu Qasra, announced on Tuesday a comprehensive ceasefire with SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, after intense fighting in recent times. Aleppo houses many Kurdish families, and these districts remain under SDF control despite regime changes.
Mohammed Ahmad, a university student, shared how he was unable to return home after attending his classes, as roads were blocked by security personnel armed with rifles. Locals expressed concern that the area might be emptied of its residents due to these restrictions.
Humanitarian access is limited, with only the Red Crescent allowed to bring aid or evacuate those in need. Some residents have had to stay overnight at workplaces due to the lockdown.
In the no-man's land between government forces and Kurdish internal security, both sides occasionally take sniper positions, yet no shootings have occurred since the truce.
Efforts continue from various parties to stabilize the situation and integrate the SDF into the state framework, aiming for peaceful coexistence and respect for all communities insha'Allah.
https://www.thenationalnews.co