Julani Forces Intensify Pressure on Residents of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh Neighborhoods in Aleppo
Since early January, forces loyal to the Jolani-led administration have begun inspecting vehicles, detaining civilians, and confiscating portions of goods entering the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods. These measures have led to long lines of vehicles and delays of several hours for residents trying to enter or exit the area.
According to a Jolani-affiliated officer stationed at the Sheikh Maqsoud checkpoint, these actions are part of a “new directive” issued in response to recent tensions between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Qamishli.
Residents of Qamishli recently reported armed clashes and arrests carried out by Syrian army units and SDF-affiliated internal security forces (Asayish). Since the beginning of the month, SDF forces have encircled the Tayy and Halko neighborhoods, which are under Jolani’s control.
The recent pressure in Aleppo reflects an indirect escalation between Damascus and the SDF. Jolani’s military and security apparatus appears to be imposing restrictions on SDF-controlled areas in Aleppo as a retaliatory move for the siege of Damascus-held neighborhoods in Qamishli. These developments highlight the deepening mistrust between Damascus and the SDF. Despite previous attempts at cooperation and agreements, the latest tensions reveal that the political and security divide between the two sides remains significant.
Comment