PKK/SDF flags removed as Syrian forces restore control in eastern Aleppo VIDEO

Flags associated with the PKK/SDF were removed at the entrance to the city of Deir Hafer following the withdrawal of the group’s units, paving the way for the Syrian Arab Army to re-enter  the city and the nearby town of Maskanah and restore control over the area.

According to sources cited in the report, more than 200 PKK/SDF militants surrendered and subsequently left Deir Hafer, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

In the aftermath of the handover, forces aligned with the Syrian government deployed engineering and construction equipment to the city to stabilize the security situation and initiate efforts to repair and restore damaged infrastructure.

On January 17, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) announced full control and began deploying forces in the city of Deir Hafer in Aleppo’s eastern countryside.

“We announce the complete establishment of our military control over the city of Deir Hafer in the eastern countryside of Aleppo,” the Operations Command of the Syrian Arab Army told media.

The command added that SAA units are working to secure the city and clear it of mines and remnants of war, while simultaneously advancing toward the Maskanah and Dibsi Afnan areas.

Later, the Operations Command reported that its forces had expanded control over a roughly 10-kilometre stretch east of Deir Hafer. According to the statement, the army captured al-Jarrah Military Airport and secured 14 villages and towns east of the city. The SAA also facilitated the withdrawal of over 200 members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) along with their weapons.

The command further noted that army units have reached Maskanah city east of Aleppo, with hundreds of SDF fighters surrendering to Syrian forces.

By Vafa Guliyeva