Media: Syria opens safe corridor for SDF exit from Sheikh Maqsoud

Buses have begun entering Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsoud neighbourhood to transport members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to areas in northeastern Syria, following the opening of a safe corridor.

A government source told SANA that the Internal Security Forces, in coordination with the Syrian Arab Army’s Operations Authority, are overseeing the evacuation to ensure the safe passage of SDF members. The source confirmed that the buses are already on site, ready to facilitate the movement under military supervision, Caliber.Az reports. 

Residents of Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Bani Zeid neighbourhoods were reassured that life will return to normal once mine-clearing operations are completed and the areas are fully secured.

“The Syrian Arab Army has taken measures over the past days to minimise risks during the military operation to protect civilians,” the source said, calling on residents to prepare to return to their homes once the neighbourhoods are cleared.

The evacuation follows a ceasefire announced by the Syrian Ministry of Defence on the night of January 8, covering Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Bani Zeid. Under the agreement, armed groups in the three neighbourhoods were instructed to leave starting at 3:00 a.m., with a 9:00 a.m. deadline on January 9. Departing militants are allowed to carry only light personal weapons, and government forces are escorting them to ensure their safe passage to northeastern Syria.

Heavy clashes had resumed on January 6 in northern Aleppo between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led SDF, primarily in the predominantly Kurdish neighbourhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh.

Despite previous ceasefire agreements, these districts remained under SDF control. The renewed fighting has left at least 22 people dead, including nine civilians, according to health officials.

By Sabina Mammadli