Syrian Information Minister on Aleppo Clashes and SDF Agreement

Syrian Government's Stance on SDF Conflict

• 💡 The Syrian government considers the Kurdish people an integral part of Syria and seeks their integration into state institutions, not conflict.
• 🎯 The current confrontation stems from the SDF's alleged violation of a March 10 agreement, which stipulated their withdrawal from specific Aleppo neighborhoods and transfer of administration.
• ⚠️ The SDF is accused of over 300 attacks targeting civilian institutions and infrastructure, and of escalating the situation in Aleppo to pressure the government.

Diplomatic Solutions and Ceasefire

• 🤝 The Syrian government consistently favors peaceful and negotiated solutions to disputes with the SDF.
• ⏳ A ceasefire was announced after three days of clashes, with a six-hour window initially given for SDF fighters to evacuate Aleppo's Shik Makud and Alra neighborhoods.
• 🗣️ Despite some SDF fighters leaving, an "extreme group" affiliated with the PKK reportedly remained, leading to extended warnings for evacuation and continued negotiations.

International Involvement and Post-War Recovery

• 🇺🇸 The US Special Envoy to Syria urged restraint, while the Syrian government seeks US and EU support to pressure the SDF into integration.
• 🇪🇺 EU officials announced $720 million in post-war recovery aid for Syria during a visit to Damascus, emphasizing the importance of Syrian stability for regional stability.
• 🚫 The Syrian government is eager for the EU and other international players to remove sanctions to aid in rebuilding the country.

SDF's Position and Internal Dynamics

• 🚩 The SDF is accused of attempting to create autonomy and pressuring the government by escalating conflict, particularly after the March 10 agreement deadline passed.
• 📉 Internal divisions within the SDF elite are suggested as a reason for their inability to move forward with integration agreements.
• 🗺️ The SDF controls a significant portion of Syrian territory, roughly one-third, down to the Iraqi border.

Impact on Civilians and Aleppo

• 💔 Over 140,000 people have been displaced since Tuesday due to the clashes in Aleppo, with residents expressing exhaustion from prolonged conflict.
• 🏙️ Aleppo, the economic capital, has been under threat for 10 months, highlighting the urgent need for stability and the government to restore order.
• ✈️ Buses were on standby to transport Kurdish militants to northeastern Syria, but SDF fighters reportedly refused to leave, opting to resist the Syrian army.