Thu Jan 09 08:55:17 UTC 2025: ## Fierce Clashes in Syria Leave Dozens Dead Despite US Efforts to De-escalate
**Damascus, Syria – January 9, 2025** – Fierce fighting between Turkish-backed factions and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Syria’s northern Manbij region has left at least 37 dead, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The clashes, marked by Turkish airstrikes, come despite recent US efforts to mediate between the warring parties.
The Observatory reported intense battles in the Manbij countryside, resulting in the deaths of primarily Turkish-backed combatants, but also SDF fighters and civilians. The death toll since last month has risen to at least 322.
This escalation occurs just weeks after Islamist-led rebels overthrew Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on November 27th. Turkish-backed groups capitalized on the upheaval, seizing Kurdish-held Manbij and Tal Rifaat despite a US-led attempt to establish a truce.
SDF commander Mazloum Abdi has called for a ceasefire, highlighting his group’s support for Syrian territorial integrity and a recent positive meeting with Damascus authorities. He appealed to the new Syrian government to intervene.
While US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Turkey’s legitimate concerns about PKK militants in Syria, he stressed the need to prevent further conflict, stating that such escalation would undermine the positive developments following Assad’s fall. Turkey, meanwhile, issued a warning of military action against Kurdish forces unless they meet Ankara’s terms for a peaceful transition.
The ongoing conflict underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in Syria, where the US-backed SDF played a crucial role in defeating ISIS but faces ongoing conflict with Turkish forces due to the SDF’s alleged links to the PKK, designated a terrorist organization by Turkey and several Western nations.
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