EU Urges Restraint in Aleppo Amid Rising Tensions Between Syrian Forces and Kurdish Fighters

The European Union issued a statement today urging restraint and the protection of civilians in Aleppo, northern Syria, as clashes intensify between Syrian government forces and Kurdish fighters. The EU expressed significant concern regarding the deteriorating security situation, as reported by Agence France-Presse.

Anwar Al-Anouni, spokesperson for EU foreign affairs, emphasized that Brussels "calls on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, ensure the protection of civilians, and pursue a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the crisis."

European Warning Ahead of Diplomatic Visit

This call for restraint comes just before an expected visit by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa to Damascus, where discussions with Syrian leadership are planned amid escalating tensions in northern Syria.

Intensified Shelling Reported in Aleppo

A Syrian military source indicated that the Syrian army has commenced heavy shelling targeting positions held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods of Aleppo, following the release of maps detailing the targeted areas, according to state media reports.

In this context, the Syrian government asserted that its military operations in these neighborhoods are aimed solely at maintaining security and preventing armed activities within residential areas, which could exert pressure on the city of Aleppo.

Commitment to Civilian Safety

The Syrian authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding civilians and ensuring their safety, amid growing concerns over the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing clashes.