Syrian Government Conducts Operation in Aleppo to Restore Order and Protect Civilians

The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that the government has initiated a limited operation in the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods of Aleppo. This action is aimed at restoring public order and ensuring the safety of civilians, following ongoing violations of prior security agreements with the People's Protection Units associated with the Democratic Union Party.

The ministry stated today that the measures taken are grounded in principles of transparency, rule of law, and non-discrimination. It emphasized that this operation does not constitute a military campaign and is not intended to effect demographic changes or target any specific ethnic or religious groups. The intervention focuses on armed factions operating outside the established security framework, which have been implicated in attacks on civilian areas and the recruitment of minors for combat.

Since the neighborhoods were secured on December 8, 2024, the Syrian government has aimed to unify security efforts and reinforce the authority of state institutions. Security agreements established in April 2025 sought to eliminate unauthorized military activities. However, repeated breaches of these agreements, including armed assaults on January 7 and 8 that resulted in civilian casualties, have undermined these efforts.

The ministry noted that the measures taken were necessary and proportional, prioritizing civilian protection through the establishment of advanced response points and the opening of safe humanitarian corridors in collaboration with humanitarian organizations. Additionally, operations are underway to survey and remove explosive remnants to facilitate the return of civilian life.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed the importance of the Kurdish community in Aleppo as an integral part of the social fabric and a partner in national institutions. It stressed that full restoration of state control over weapons is essential for fostering stability, supporting the political process, and preventing the use of Syrian territory for armed actions that could threaten regional security.

The ministry also expressed appreciation for the contributions of the United States, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, France, the United Kingdom, and Mr. Masoud Barzani in promoting Syria's stability and territorial integrity, which are vital for enhancing regional security and peace.