UK voices concern over Aleppo clashes, urges de-escalation
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The United Kingdom expressed on Wednesday deep concern over ongoing clashes in Aleppo’s Kurdish neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh, warning of the impact on civilians amid mounting casualties and displacement.
In a post on X, Ann Snow, UK’s Special Representative for Syria, said London was “deeply concerned by clashes in northern Aleppo, civilian casualties and displacement at a time when stabilising Syria is so important.”
She added that the UK is calling for “immediate de-escalation, dialogue and the protection of civilians,” noting that British officials are closely monitoring developments.
Her remarks come as fighting continues in and around the Kurdish-majority neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh between factions affiliated with the Damascus government and Kurdish-led Internal Security Forces (Asayish).
Local and rights group reports say the escalation has resulted in dozens of civilian casualties, widespread damage to homes and infrastructure, and the displacement of families from the affected neighborhoods.
Medical facilities have also come under pressure due to shortages and damage caused by the fighting.
The situation has further deteriorated after the Syrian army declared Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh “closed military zones,” prompting civilian evacuations and the suspension of flights at Aleppo International Airport, as well as the closure of schools and public institutions.
The clashes mark the most serious escalation in the area in years, raising fears of a broader conflict and deepening humanitarian concerns, amid repeated international calls for restraint and renewed dialogue to prevent further civilian harm.