Aleppo stabilizes as last Syrian Democratic Forces fighters leave Sheikh Maksoud

The departure of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) militants marks a turning point in Aleppo’s journey toward peace and stability.

Annahar

Aleppo stabilizes as last Syrian Democratic Forces fighters leave Sheikh Maksoud

Deployment of Internal Security Forces in the Sheikh Maksoud district of Aleppo (SANA).

Aleppo Governor Azzam Al-Gharib stated that security conditions in the Sheikh Maksoud and Ashrafiyah neighborhoods - two densely populated districts in northern Aleppo that have long been sensitive due to their strategic location and predominantly Kurdish population - are steadily and rapidly improving, following measures implemented by the authorities to strengthen security and restore confidence among residents.

Al-Gharib said in a post on “X” that the relevant units remain deployed on the ground, carrying out their duties to maintain security and prevent any attempts to undermine stability, while ensuring the safety of residents and the continued restoration of normal life across various districts.

He emphasized that “the current situation in the city reflects the solidarity of its people, their national awareness, and their support for state institutions,” affirming that “Aleppo has moved beyond a period of anxiety and is steadily advancing toward comprehensive security and stability.”

Buses carrying SDF militants leaving Aleppo (SANA)

He also affirmed that “the city is returning today with greater strength and stability,” noting that “the next phase will see enhanced services and the resumption of economic and social activities across all areas.”

After days of intense clashes and heightened security tensions, the last group of SDF elements left the Sheikh Maksoud district in Aleppo late Saturday night, heading toward northeastern Syria, according to official Syrian sources, marking the end of the organization’s military presence in the city.

A correspondent for the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) in Aleppo confirmed that the evacuation of the final group of SDF forces from the Sheikh Maksoud district to northeastern Syria has been completed.

Additionally, Syrian authorities evacuated about 400 Kurdish fighters from Aleppo to northeastern Syria and arrested more than 300 others, according to a Ministry of Interior official who told Agence France-Presse on Sunday.

The source said that “360 Kurdish fighters and 59 wounded individuals” departed the predominantly Kurdish Sheikh Maksoud district for northeastern Syria. The source also confirmed that more than 300 Kurds were arrested, including “fighters and members of the Kurdish internal security.”