Aleppo Authorities Update on Violence and Displacement Crisis

Today, a joint press conference was held at the Aleppo governorate building featuring Governor Azzam Al-Ghareeb, Minister of Information Hamza Al-Mustafa, and Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Qabwat. They discussed recent developments in the city amid escalating violence from the SDF and its impact on civilians and local neighborhoods.

Escalating Violence from SDF

Governor Azzam Al-Ghareeb stated that the SDF has failed to adhere to the April 1 agreement regarding the withdrawal of its forces from the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods. Instead, the group has continued to attack army positions and internal security forces, as well as surrounding neighborhoods. He reported that these repeated SDF attacks have resulted in the deaths of six civilians and over 70 injuries, predominantly among women and children. The governor emphasized that the state has shown restraint and called for calm to protect citizens before the Syrian Arab Army is compelled to take necessary measures to restore security.

State Institutions Respond to Needs

Following the completion of demining operations, the governor indicated that state institutions began entering neighborhoods in coordination with the army to meet the needs of affected residents. Al-Ghareeb confirmed that authorities have received 155,000 displaced individuals from the Ashrafiyeh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods. A central response committee for Aleppo has been established, which includes health, social affairs, and international cooperation departments to ensure citizens' needs are met.

Media and Social Affairs

Minister of Information Hamza Al-Mustafa stated that national media have covered events with objectivity and professionalism, clarifying facts and providing accurate information regarding the security and humanitarian situation in the city. Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Qabwat explained that her ministry is working to ensure the needs of displaced individuals in reception centers, collaborating with civil society and local organizations to maintain essential services and humanitarian support.