Residents have begun to return to a disputed area in Aleppo, Syria, following violent clashes between government forces and Kurdish-led groups. The conflict erupted in Kurdish neighborhoods after disagreements on integrating the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national army. Security forces have gained control of certain areas after days of intense fighting, resulting in casualties and displacement.
Kurdish fighters have withdrawn from the Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood, pledging to continue the fight from northeastern Syria. Despite the unrest, the neighborhood was reported to be peaceful recently. Syrian military police escorted journalists to survey the damage, showcasing the impact on local infrastructure and civilian facilities.
Residents expressed their desire to return home, highlighting the challenges they face, including the presence of mines left behind by the Kurdish forces. Clearance of these mines is necessary before allowing full reentry into the neighborhood, reminiscent of past displacements during the country’s civil war.