The Syrian army says it has finished combing an Aleppo neighbourhood, signalling a takeover from Kurdish forces and a shift in control in northern Syria.
By Sahil
Date : 10 January
The Syrian army has announced that it has completed security operations in a key Aleppo neighbourhood, signaling a takeover of control from Kurdish-led forces and marking a significant shift in power in northern Syria.
The statement, released through Syrian state media, said government troops had finished “combing and clearing” the area to restore security, following negotiations and arrangements that led to the withdrawal of Kurdish forces.
What the Syrian Army Announced
According to the military, Syrian government forces entered the neighbourhood after Kurdish fighters pulled back, allowing Damascus to reassert authority without major clashes. The army said the operation aimed to stabilize the area, remove remaining threats, and restore normal life for civilians.
Officials described the move as part of broader efforts to reunify territory under state control amid ongoing regional and international pressure on Syria’s fragmented security landscape.
Kurdish Forces Step Back
Kurdish-led groups, which have controlled parts of northern Syria for years with backing from the United States, have gradually lost territory as regional dynamics shift. While Kurdish officials have not fully detailed the withdrawal, similar past handovers have occurred following talks mediated by Russia and the Syrian government.
The takeover reflects the declining influence of Kurdish forces in urban centres and the growing leverage of Damascus, particularly in areas considered strategically important.
Why Aleppo Matters
Aleppo is Syria’s largest city and an economic hub, making any change in control highly significant. Although much of Aleppo has been under government authority since 2016, Kurdish forces maintained control over certain neighbourhoods, operating semi-autonomously.
The Syrian army’s move consolidates control over the city and strengthens the government’s position ahead of any future political negotiations.
Regional and International Implications
The shift could impact relations between Syria, Turkey, Russia, and the United States. Turkey views Kurdish armed groups as a security threat, while Washington has relied on Kurdish forces in the fight against Islamic State.
Analysts say the handover may reflect reduced U.S. engagement and growing coordination between Syrian Kurdish groups and Damascus as they seek protection against external pressure.
What Comes Next
While the Syrian army claims the operation was completed peacefully, tensions remain high in northern Syria. Observers warn that further changes in control could spark localized unrest or clashes, particularly if agreements between Kurdish forces and Damascus break down.
For now, the development underscores the evolving balance of power in Syria, as the government continues to reclaim territory once held by opposition and Kurdish groups.
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