The Syrian army has advanced into areas east of Aleppo city, entering the town of Deir Hafer, following the withdrawal of the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This movement occurred as the SDF announced its intention to redeploy its forces east of the Euphrates River, a decision that followed discussions with U.S. officials and a commitment from Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa regarding the recognition of Kurdish as a national language.
Syrian Army Movement
Syrian troops were observed entering Deir Hafer, a town located approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Aleppo. State-run news agency Sana confirmed the Syrian army's entry into the "western Euphrates area," declaring "full military control" over Deir Hafer. Visual reports depicted Syrian forces, including tanks, moving towards the area. The military advised civilians to avoid the operational zone until it had been secured and cleared of mines and other war remnants. Syrian authorities also reported that at least 4,000 civilians had evacuated the Deir Hafer area in response to earlier warnings from the Syrian army.
Kurdish Forces Redeploy
The Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) militia, which is backed by the United States, announced on Friday its intention to redeploy its forces "towards redeployment in areas east of the Euphrates." Kurdish leader Mazloum Abdi confirmed this withdrawal, citing appeals from "friendly countries and mediators."
Diplomatic Context
The SDF's decision to redeploy came after discussions with U.S. officials. The United States had previously urged both the Syrian army and Kurdish forces to prevent further clashes following recent confrontations in the region.
A commitment from Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to recognize Kurdish as a national language was also a factor in the SDF's decision. President al-Sharaa has stated his goal is to integrate Kurdish military and civilian structures into national Syrian institutions. A meeting between U.S. special envoy Tom Barrack and Mazloum Abdi is scheduled for Saturday in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan.