Aleppo Officials Update on Civilian Impact Following SDF Escalation and Displacement

Today, a press conference was held at the Aleppo Governorate building featuring Governor Azzam Al-Ghareeb alongside Media Minister Hamza Al-Mustafa and Social Affairs and Labor Minister Hind Qabwat. They addressed the recent developments in Aleppo following escalations by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the subsequent impact on civilians and local neighborhoods.

SDF Violations and Civilian Casualties

Governor Azzam Al-Ghareeb reported that the SDF has failed to comply with the April 1 agreement to withdraw its forces from the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods. Instead, the SDF has continued to target army and internal security positions, leading to the deaths of six civilians and injuries to over 70 others, primarily women and children. He urged for calm to protect residents, warning that the Syrian Arab Army may need to take further action to restore security if the situation does not improve.

State Services for Displaced Residents

Following the completion of military operations, the governor stated that state service institutions have begun entering the affected neighborhoods in coordination with the army to address the needs of displaced residents. Al-Ghareeb confirmed that 155,000 displaced persons from the Ashrafiyeh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods have been received, and a central response committee has been established, incorporating health, social affairs, and international cooperation departments to assist residents.

Media and Humanitarian Efforts

Media Minister Hamza Al-Mustafa noted that national media has been covering the situation in a professional and objective manner, ensuring accurate reporting on the security and humanitarian conditions in the city. Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Qabwat added that her ministry is collaborating with civil society and local organizations to provide essential services and humanitarian assistance to those in shelters.