SDF warns of escalation as ceasefire breaches continue in Syria
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The SDF accuses Damascus-affiliated factions of repeated violations of the March 10 ceasefire across Aleppo, Deir Hafer, and Deir Ezzor; warns it may respond in self-defense if unrest continues.
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Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters stand guard at al-Naeem Square, in Raqqa, Syria, on February 7, 2022. (AP)
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has accused factions aligned with the interim Syrian government of carrying out multiple provocative actions and direct violations of the March 10 ceasefire agreement across Aleppo and Deir Ezzor.
Persistent violations trigger tensions
According to a statement issued by the SDF on Monday, these factions have engaged in “suspicious movements” near Deir Hafer and surrounding villages in recent days. The SDF emphasized that despite these provocations, its forces have maintained restraint and have not responded—but warned that continued violations may force them to act in legitimate self-defense.
Read more: Syrian gov. rejects SDF conference, accuses it of breaching unity deal
Attacks near Aleppo districts raise alarm
The SDF further highlighted that groups affiliated with Damascus continue to escalate their presence around Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods, supported by intensified patrols and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) activity. One drone even detonated near Sheikh Maqsoud, undermining the April 1 agreement established between local councils and the Syrian transitional government.
Dozens of breaches across multiple fronts
In its official public release, the SDF revealed that more than 22 violation incidents occurred in Deir Ezzor, Deir Hafer, Tishrin Dam, Tal Tamr, and Aleppo. These violations included shelling, ground assaults, and attempts to cross the Euphrates to attack SDF positions. The attacks injured at least 11 civilians, significantly endangering populated areas.
Read more: Damascus-backed gunmen injure 4 civilians in Deir Ezzor, SDF reports
