Clashes Break Out Between Turkey-Backed Faction and Tribal Fighters in Northern Syria
By Kardo Roj
RAQQA, Syria (North Press) – Armed clashes erupted Tuesday in the town of Suluk, north of Raqqa, between a Turkey-backed faction and tribal fighters from the al-Nu’aym tribe, resulting in several injuries and raising concerns of further escalation in an already fragile area.
Local sources from Suluk confirmed to North Press that the violence broke out between the “Saqour al-Sunna” faction, affiliated with Turkish forces, and members of the local tribe. The fighting involved light and medium weapons and continued for several hours before subsiding into a tense calm.
Preliminary reports indicate that multiple individuals from both sides were wounded, with unconfirmed information suggesting possible fatalities. The exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear, but sources linked the incident to long-standing grievances between local communities and the faction’s presence in the area.
Security tensions have surged in Suluk, which lies within the Turkish-controlled zone in northern Raqqa, near the Syrian-Turkish border. The town has witnessed recurrent instability since Turkish forces and affiliated Syrian factions took control of the region following Operation Peace Spring in October 2019.
In response to the escalating violence, units from the Syrian Ministry of Defense reportedly entered Suluk to de-escalate the situation and prevent further bloodshed. Their arrival follows repeated calls from residents for increased security measures and an end to the factional infighting that continues to disrupt civilian life.
The incident underscores the persistent instability in areas held by Turkish-backed armed groups, where governance remains fragmented and rivalries—both tribal and political—often spark armed conflict. Civilian populations in these zones frequently bear the brunt of such clashes, prompting renewed concerns over lawlessness and lack of accountability.
Meanwhile, communities in regions governed by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), supported by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), have called attention to the need for lasting security solutions that prioritize civilian safety and prevent the spread of armed conflict into adjacent territories.
As of Tuesday evening, the situation in Suluk remained tense but relatively calm, with military patrols deployed in the area. Local residents continue to express fears of renewed clashes unless effective mediation and security arrangements are implemented.