SDF Announces Killing of Dozens of Turkey-Backed Militants in Northern Syria
By Kardo Roj
KOBANI, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Tuesday that its fighters killed dozens of members of Turkey-backed factions and destroyed their military vehicles in the Kobani and Deir Hafir areas of northern Syria.
For the past few days, Turkey and its allied factions have intensified their attacks on several cities and regions in northern and eastern Syria, resulting in significant civilian casualties and widespread damage.
In a statement released earlier today, the SDF reported that its forces thwarted all attempts by Turkey-backed factions to seize control of the Qaraqozak Bridge south of Kobani. “More than 100 fighters were killed in the clashes,” the statement claimed.
The SDF also stated that numerous military vehicles used by the attacking factions were destroyed, and intense battles continue in the vicinity of the bridge as SDF forces work to secure the area.
In Deir Hafir, east of Aleppo, SDF forces repelled additional attacks by Turkey-backed groups. “Our forces destroyed a military vehicle, killing everyone inside,” the statement read, adding that a significant amount of weapons and ammunition was seized during the operation.
The escalation follows a broader surge in violence across northern Syria since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s government earlier this week. Turkey and its affiliated armed groups have ramped up military campaigns, targeting both civilian areas and critical infrastructure.
Local sources report widespread fear and displacement among residents as clashes intensify in several areas, including Kobani, Manbij, and the Aleppo countryside. The SDF has called on international actors to intervene and pressure Turkey to halt its attacks, citing concerns over a potential humanitarian disaster.
The Qaraqozak Bridge, which spans the Euphrates River, is a vital link between Kobani and Manbij. Controlling the bridge would provide strategic leverage to any armed faction, making it a focal point of recent battles.
Meanwhile, residents of Kobani expressed alarm over the escalation, with many seeking refuge in safer areas. “The sound of gunfire and explosions has become a daily reality,” said Ahmed Khalil, a local resident. “We just want peace and stability to return.”
Turkey’s actions have drawn widespread condemnation from Kurdish officials, who accuse Ankara of exploiting Syria’s political instability to advance its territorial and strategic interests. The Turkish government has not commented on the recent clashes but has previously defended its operations in Syria as part of its national security strategy.
As violence surges, calls for international intervention are growing louder. The SDF has urged the United Nations and global powers to take immediate action to stop Turkish aggression and to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.
The situation remains tense, with reports of continued clashes and Turkish aerial strikes targeting key areas in northern Syria.