Syrian Authorities Urge Civilian Evacuation in Aleppo as Clashes With Kurdish Forces Intensify

Syrian authorities on Thursday urged civilians to evacuate several contested neighbourhoods in Aleppo as fighting intensified between government forces and Kurdish-led groups, prompting fresh displacement across the province.

Officials announced a limited evacuation window, allowing residents to leave in coordination with the Syrian army before the launch of what were described as targeted military operations. Corridors were opened for a second consecutive day to facilitate civilian movement out of the affected areas.

Security forces indicated that operations would focus on neighbourhoods including Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh and Bani Zaid, where clashes with the Syrian Democratic Forces have continued since earlier this week. Maps outlining evacuation zones were circulated as authorities warned residents to comply with the orders.

On the ground, sporadic shelling was reported as families fled the area. Local officials estimate that more than 46,000 people have been displaced across Aleppo province so far, with thousands more leaving their homes on Thursday alone. Many of the displaced include elderly individuals, women, children and people requiring urgent medical care.

Both sides have accused each other of targeting civilian neighbourhoods and infrastructure. Reports from Kurdish-held areas indicated civilian casualties, while authorities in government-controlled zones also confirmed deaths and injuries resulting from the fighting.

Religious institutions and temporary shelters across Aleppo city have taken in displaced families. Churches and community centres have opened their doors, providing basic necessities such as food, bedding and medical support, as humanitarian agencies work to scale up relief efforts.

The latest violence comes amid a broader political deadlock between Damascus and the SDF. A previous agreement aimed at integrating Kurdish forces into the national military framework by the end of 2025 has stalled, with disagreements over implementation. Talks held earlier this week reportedly failed to achieve any significant breakthrough.

International concern has grown as the conflict escalates. The United Nations has called for restraint and warned of the rising humanitarian toll. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed alarm over civilian casualties and urged all parties to de-escalate and return to negotiations.

The United States has said it is closely monitoring developments and is engaging diplomatically to prevent further violence, while Turkiye stated that it is observing the situation closely, reiterating that Syria’s security has direct regional implications.

As clashes persist and displacement rises, humanitarian agencies warn that prolonged fighting could further destabilise the region unless diplomatic efforts resume urgently.