Mon Jan 12 13:41:30 UTC 2026: # Syrian Government Gains Control in Aleppo After SDF Withdrawal

The Story:
Following days of intense battles and a ceasefire agreement, Syrian government forces have begun security sweeps in Aleppo after the withdrawal of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters. Residents displaced by the fighting in the Ashrafieh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods are beginning to return, while the Syrian army works to remove explosive devices and weapons. The SDF withdrawal comes after stalled negotiations regarding the integration of Kurdish-run institutions and fighters into the Syrian state, an agreement originally reached in March 2025.

Key Points:

  • SDF fighters evacuated from Aleppo on Sunday following a ceasefire agreement mediated by international parties.
  • The evacuation allowed fighters to move to northeastern Syria, where Kurdish-led forces control a semi-autonomous zone.
  • Fighting was linked to stalled negotiations over the integration of SDF fighters into the Syrian state, agreed upon in March 2025.
  • Residents are returning to Ashrafieh, but Sheikh Maqsoud remains under government search for explosives.
  • Syrian forces are reportedly searching for opposition prisoners arrested by the SDF during the rule of former leader Bashar al-Assad, who was overthrown in December 2024.
  • US envoy Tom Barrack met with the current Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, calling for a “return to dialogue.”
  • The Syrian government views the events as a “limited law enforcement operation” rather than open war with the SDF, emphasizing national unity.
  • At least 24 civilians have reportedly been killed and 129 wounded in SDF attacks since Tuesday.
  • The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports 45 civilian deaths, along with 60 soldiers and fighters from both sides.

Critical Analysis:
The limited context suggests that the government of Syria is attempting to consolidate power following a period of internal strife and potential power vacuum left by the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. The previous article suggests that Syrians are slowly trying to return to their lives after the recent conflict.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Syrian government is asserting control over previously SDF-held territories in Aleppo.
  • Negotiations between the SDF and the Syrian government regarding integration have failed, leading to conflict.
  • International mediation played a role in securing the SDF withdrawal.
  • The Syrian government is attempting to portray the situation as a law enforcement matter to promote national unity.
  • Casualty figures from both Syrian government and UK-based sources indicate significant civilian casualties.

Impact Analysis:
The Syrian government’s “strategic victory” in Aleppo could have several long-term implications:

  • Consolidation of Power: Gaining control over Aleppo strengthens the government’s overall position and authority within Syria, potentially leading to further efforts to reintegrate other semi-autonomous regions.
  • Future Negotiations: The outcome of the Aleppo conflict may affect future negotiations with the SDF and other groups, potentially making the government more assertive and less willing to compromise.
  • Regional Stability: The ongoing tensions and violence in Syria could destabilize the region, potentially leading to further displacement, humanitarian crises, and geopolitical challenges.
  • International Relations: The role of international parties in mediating the conflict and the US envoy’s call for dialogue highlight the ongoing interest and involvement of external actors in the Syrian situation.

    Read More

Related News: