Drone Attack in Syria’s Aleppo Kills Kurdish Security Members and Civilians
By Kardo Roj
ALEPPO, Syria (North Press) – On Tuesday, two members of the Internal Security Forces (Asayish) and several civilians lost their lives in a suicide drone attack targeting an Asayish checkpoint in the Ashrafiyeh neighborhood of Aleppo.
The Asayish, which has maintained security in parts of Aleppo since the fall of the previous Syrian regime, confirmed the loss of two members in the attack. Civilian casualties were also reported, but the exact number remains unclear.
Details of the Attack
According to sources obtained by North Press, the checkpoint was struck by a suicide drone. The explosion resulted in significant damage and casualties. Local residents expressed shock and fear, noting that such incidents have been rare in this part of the city.
Mystery Surrounds the Perpetrators
The origin of the drone and the group responsible for the attack remain unknown. A source from the neighborhood dismissed the possibility that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) was behind the assault. Instead, suspicions have been directed toward Turkish-backed factions of the Syrian National Army (SNA).
The attack comes amid heightened tensions in northern Syria, where various factions continue to vie for control and influence. The SNA, which has been involved in several cross-border operations in Syria under Turkish direction, has previously been linked to similar incidents, although there is no official confirmation regarding their involvement in this case.
Broader Context
The Ashrafiyeh neighborhood, predominantly Kurdish, has experienced periods of relative stability under the security arrangements of the Asayish. However, the neighborhood’s location and its significance as a security hub have made it a target for various factions.
This incident underscores the fragility of security in Aleppo and the surrounding areas. Despite efforts by local forces to maintain order, external influences and unresolved political conflicts continue to destabilize the region.
Growing Concerns Over Drone Warfare
The use of drones, particularly suicide drones, has become a growing concern in Syria’s ongoing conflict. These devices allow factions to carry out precision strikes while minimizing their own risks, making them a favored tool in asymmetric warfare.
Analysts note that this trend poses a severe challenge for local security forces like the Asayish, who lack the advanced technology needed to counter such attacks effectively.
The suicide drone attack in Ashrafiyeh serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing volatility in Aleppo. As investigations continue, residents and security forces face heightened fears of further violence. The international community’s attention is needed to address the use of advanced weaponry and to support stability in this troubled region.