ٍSyria’s Manbij Military Council Repels Turkish-Backed Faction Attacks

Fighters of the Manbij Military Council in northern Syria.
Fighters of the Manbij Military Council in northern Syria.

MANBIJ, Syria (North Press) – The Manbij Military Council, part of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), announced on Thursday that it had repelled several attacks launched by Turkish-backed factions on the southern and eastern outskirts of Manbij in northern Syria.

Ongoing Clashes in Manbij

For over two weeks, the frontlines around Manbij have witnessed fierce clashes between SDF forces and factions aligned with Turkey. These confrontations come amid increased drone and artillery strikes targeting the area.

The council stated in a press release, “Our forces successfully thwarted attacks by Turkish forces and their allied factions in the areas of Al-Atshanah and Al-Mastaha, south of Manbij, forcing the attackers to retreat.”

Heavy Losses for Attacking Forces

In a separate clash near Abu Qalqal, an SDF stronghold southeast of Manbij, the council reported significant gains:

  • A Turkish-backed armored BMP vehicle was destroyed.
  • A tank was damaged.
  • Dozens of faction members were killed or injured.

The council added that the situation remains volatile, with ongoing battles and heavy artillery fire affecting villages to the south and east of Manbij.

Escalating Hostilities

Manbij, strategically located near the Turkish border, has been a flashpoint in northern Syria. Turkey views the SDF as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). This has led to repeated Turkish offensives and proxy attacks in the region.

The latest escalation follows weeks of heightened tensions, with Turkish forces increasingly using drones and heavy artillery against SDF positions.

A Humanitarian Toll

The intensified violence has raised concerns among local and international observers about the humanitarian impact on civilians in the region. Many have been forced to flee their homes due to shelling and the fear of an imminent ground offensive.

Despite these challenges, the Manbij Military Council reaffirmed its commitment to defending the region, stating, “We will continue to resist aggression and protect the people of Manbij from external threats.”

The clashes underscore the fragile security landscape in northern Syria, where multiple actors vie for control amid a broader conflict that shows no signs of abating.