SDF attack in Syria's Aleppo kills five, injures nine

An attack carried out by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Aleppo on Monday has killed five people and wounded nine others, according to the local health authority. The Aleppo Health Directorate stated the fire targeted residential neighborhoods in the city.

Details of the Attack and Response

SDF fighters reportedly targeted a checkpoint and the al-Razi Hospital using machine-gun fire and mortar shells. In response, the Syrian Defense Ministry stated that several attackers were "neutralized" following the assault. The SDF is dominated by the YPG, which is considered the Syrian branch of the PKK, designated a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the U.S., and the EU.

Context of Failed Integration Agreement

The violence occurs despite a March 10 agreement announced by the Syrian presidency for the integration of the SDF into state institutions, a pact intended to reaffirm territorial unity. Syrian authorities contend that the SDF has shown no substantive effort to fulfill the terms of this agreement in the subsequent months. The attack underscores ongoing tensions as the Syrian government continues security consolidation efforts following the fall of the previous administration.