SDF accuses Damascus of violations against civilians in Hasakah, Kobani
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) accused on Sunday Syrian government forces of committing violations against populated areas in the Hasakah and Kobani countryside, despite the ceasefire agreement having entered into force.
In a statement published on its official website, the SDF said that intense clashes continue between its forces and Damascus-affiliated factions, which have once again violated the ceasefire agreement by launching a ground and artillery assault on the village of Kharab Ashk, south of Kobani, with simultaneous aerial support from Turkish reconnaissance aircraft.
The statement added that the clashes went on for more than three hours.
In a subsequent update on the battlefield situation, the SDF said that its forces repelled a ground attack by Damascus factions on Kharab Ashk alongside heavy artillery shelling targeting the village.
It stressed that these attacks constitute a clear violation of the latest ceasefire agreement.
The SDF noted that its forces continue to exercise their legitimate right to self-defense, holding Damascus fully responsible for breaching the ceasefire agreement.
The SDF called on all guarantor parties to the ceasefire agreement to assume their full responsibilities to put an end to these violations, compel Damascus factions to fully adhere to the agreement, and ensure the protection of civilians without delay or negligence.
Meanwhile, the Syrian Army’s Operations Directorate claimed that the SDF had violated the ceasefire agreement by targeting Syrian army positions in Kobani countryside with more than 25 suicide drones.
It added that the escalation by the SDF led to the destruction of four military vehicles.
The directorate further stated that the SDF also targeted the M4 highway and surrounding villages multiple times, resulting in injuries among several civilians.
It concluded by saying the army is currently studying its field options in response to the targeting of civilians and its deployment positions, and we will take the necessary measures.