SDF denies Syrian government accusations, affirms right to self-defense
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Sunday that their units exercised their full right to self-defense in response to attacks from Syrian government-affiliated factions in Aleppo, rejecting recent allegations made by the Syrian Ministry of Defense.
In a statement published on its official website, the SDF’s Media Center dismissed the claims issued by the Syrian government’s Media and Communications Department, which had accused SDF forces of launching rocket attacks on the village of al-Kiyariyah and its surroundings in the Manbij countryside, east of Aleppo.
“Our SDF Media Center categorically rejects the allegations made by the ‘Media and Communications Department of the Syrian Ministry of Defense’ concerning an alleged attack by our forces on Syrian government positions,” the statement read.
The SDF accused “undisciplined factions” operating within the ranks of the Syrian government forces of repeated provocations and attacks, particularly in the Deir Hafer area.
“Most recently, on the evening of Saturday, these factions indiscriminately shelled populated areas with more than ten artillery rounds, without justification,” the SDF added. “Our forces exercised their full right to self-defense and respond to the sources of fire.”
The statement went on to condemn what it described as “deliberate attempts by the Ministry of Defense to distort facts and mislead public opinion,” asserting that such actions undermine efforts to maintain security and stability.
“Meanwhile, our forces have demonstrated the utmost restraint despite ongoing provocations of these factions, who have continued to dig trenches and transfer militants over the past period, confirming their intentions for escalation,” the statement noted.
The SDF reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire and called on the Syrian transitional government to take responsibility for the actions of the militias operating under its command, urging Damascus to rein in these rogue elements.
Late on Saturday, Ministry if Defense of Syria’s transitional government accused the SDF forces of targeting al-Kiyariyah village with rocket launchers.