Renewed clashes erupt between SDF and Damascus forces in east Syria
DEIR EZ-ZOR, Syria (North Press) – New military clashes erupted on Thursday between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and government-affiliated armed factions in eastern Deir ez-Zor and eastern Aleppo countryside, resulting in casualties on both sides. The escalation reflects heightened tensions along key frontlines in northeast Syria.
The SDF issued a statement reporting that government-linked forces targeted one of their military points in the village of Marat, within the Seven Villages area east of Deir ez-Zor, using a drone strike. The attack resulted in the death of one SDF fighter and injuries to nine others.
According to the SDF statement, their forces promptly retaliated, targeting the positions of these armed groups on the western bank of the Euphrates River, reportedly inflicting direct casualties.
Earlier the same day, the SDF said that elements of the Syrian Ministry of Defense attempted to infiltrate one of their military points near Tishrin Dam in eastern Aleppo. The group allegedly used hand grenades in the attempt. The SDF reported neutralizing the infiltration attempt, killing one assailant while the rest retreated, leaving the body behind. The statement reaffirmed that the SDF “used its legitimate right to self-defense to foil the infiltration, stressing its commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining regional stability.”
In response, the Syrian Ministry of Defense claimed that SDF forces had targeted army positions around Tishrin Dam, causing the death of one soldier and injuries to others.
Later on Thursday evening, the SDF reported that pro-government factions shelled the areas of Tal Siratel and the surroundings of Tishrin Dam with heavy artillery, describing the attack as “a new escalation and a clear violation of the ceasefire.” The SDF said the shelling originated from positions near the city of Manbij.
These recent developments underscore persistent volatility in areas where governance and security responsibilities are contested. The SDF continues to emphasize its role in securing these territories, particularly in Deir ez-Zor and Aleppo’s eastern countryside, as part of broader counterterrorism efforts and regional stabilization.