Kurdish-Led SDF Clashes With Syrian Government Forces in Aleppo

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Syrian government-linked factions clashed multiple times in northern Syria's Aleppo province, undermining efforts to unify the country following the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad. The SDF reported that government forces attacked four of its positions in the Deir Hafer area, with fighting lasting about 20 minutes, and held the Damascus government responsible for escalating tensions. Both sides blamed each other for recent hostilities, including a rocket attack near Manbij that wounded soldiers and civilians, reflecting the deteriorating relationship despite a landmark March integration deal aimed at merging Kurdish-led forces with state institutions. These clashes have followed the collapse of US-sponsored talks to bring the SDF under national control, with the Syrian government seeking to extend its authority east of the Euphrates, a region largely controlled by the SDF. The conflict highlights ongoing challenges to stability and nation-building in Syria after 14 years of war, with the Kurdish issue central to achieving lasting peace. Meanwhile, US policy has shifted towards supporting the Damascus government, complicating the SDF's position as Washington's key ally in Syria.