Syria: SDF shelling forces Aleppo patients to relocate, airport closed PHOTO

As a result of the shelling of the Internal Medicine Hospital in Aleppo, Syria, by the SDF (a terrorist organisation linked to the PKK), patients and the wounded were transferred to Al-Razi Hospital.

According to SANA, the evacuation was carried out to ensure the safety of patients and to maintain the operation of emergency medical services.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport of Syria announced the suspension of all flights to and from Aleppo Airport for 24 hours. All flights have been temporarily redirected to Damascus Airport.

SANA reports that the decision is linked to the uncontrolled shelling of residential areas in Aleppo by the SDF (a terrorist organisation linked to the PKK). The temporary closure of the airport aims to ensure passenger safety and prevent risks associated with the ongoing military activities in the city.

On January 6, 2026, heavy clashes resumed in northern Aleppo between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), primarily in the predominantly Kurdish neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh (Achrafieh). These districts have remained under SDF control despite earlier ceasefire agreements.

The fighting involved artillery shelling, drone strikes, and the use of heavy weapons, causing significant civilian casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. Reports indicate at least seven people were killed, mostly civilians, including women and children, with dozens more injured.

According to Syrian government sources, the SDF initiated the attacks, indiscriminately shelling residential areas and hitting public facilities. Among the targeted sites were the Agriculture Directorate, where nine employees were wounded, and several hospitals, prompting evacuations of patients for their safety.

By Khagan Isayev