Clashes break out between HTS, defected groups in Syria’s Azaz
ALEPPO, Syria (North Press) – Clashes erupted on Tuesday evening between Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and groups that had defected from the extremist organization in east of the city of Azaz, northwestern Syria.
HTS-held areas in northwestern Syria have been experiencing significant internal conflicts following the defection of the former HTS leader Abu Ahmad Zakour.
Zakour was the third-ranking figure in HTS, preceded by its top leader, Abu Muhammad al-Julani, and Abu Maria al-Qahtani, who was detained several months ago over allegations of collaborating with foreign entities.
A military source in the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) informed North Press that factions affiliated with the HTS’ 50th Division attacked the headquarters of Zakour near the Nayyara junction east of Azaz, in northern Aleppo.
The clashes resulted in casualties and injuries, including civilians, the source said without adding specific numbers. In addition, the al-Baggara tribe, to which Zakour belongs, has announced a general mobilization against HTS.
Turkish forces stationed near the Bab al-Salama border crossing, north of Azaz, have sent a large military convoy to Azaz. They have also closed the Ghazawiyah crossing, which connects Idlib and Afrin, to prevent HTS from entering northern Aleppo.