PKK, SDF recruit former Syria regime loyalists for Aleppo attacks, source says

An intelligence source confirmed that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are recruiting individuals wanted by the Syrian state, as well as fugitives, in exchange for allowing them to remain in areas under SDF control.

The source told SANA that large numbers of former regime loyalists and people wanted for various crimes have joined the ranks of the SDF, with recruitment reportedly supported by Iran and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).

“These criminals are being integrated into SDF ranks with backing from Iran and the PKK,” the source said, adding that PKK terrorists, in coordination with the SDF, are responsible for targeting Aleppo with Iranian-made drones. They are also providing remnants of the ousted regime with explosive devices and tools to booby-trap civilian gatherings, as well as Syrian army and security forces.

The source further stated that the Syrian military intelligence apparatus has successfully foiled several terrorist operations during escalations by the SDF in Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafiyah neighborhoods.

Earlier today, the Syrian Army Operations Authority declared the Deir Hafer and Maskanah areas in the Aleppo countryside, along with surrounding regions, a closed military zone. The move follows continued SDF mobilization alongside PKK militias and former regime loyalists. Citizens were urged to avoid positions controlled by the SDF in the area.

By Vafa Guliyeva