Title: SDF Destroys Bridges in Um Tina and Deir Hafer, Cutting Access to Syrian Army Areas
Author: Rachel Green
Date: January 13, 2026
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have executed a series of strategic demolitions of bridges in northern Syria, significantly impacting transportation routes between the village of Um Tina and the town of Deir Hafer. The SDF rigged and subsequently blew up the Um Tina bridge, which serves as a vital connection to Deir Hafer in the Aleppo countryside. This action was followed by the destruction of the Tal Maaez Bridge located north of Deir Hafer and the Ibrahim al-Khalil Bridge situated south of the town. The demolitions have effectively severed all bridge connections between Deir Hafer and areas under the control of the Syrian Army.
Key Details
The SDF"s operations involved the use of explosives to destroy key infrastructure, specifically targeting bridges that facilitate movement and access for both civilians and military personnel. The Um Tina bridge was the first to be destroyed, followed by the Tal Maaez and Ibrahim al-Khalil bridges. These actions were reportedly taken to prevent civilians from fleeing the area and to potentially use them as human shields in the ongoing conflict.
Deir Hafer, a town located in the Aleppo countryside, has been a focal point of military activity, with the Syrian Army declaring it a closed military zone. This declaration has prompted the Syrian Army to urge civilians to withdraw from the area, as tensions escalate between the SDF and the Syrian government forces. The destruction of these bridges is seen as a tactical move by the SDF to maintain control over the region and limit the Syrian Army"s operational capabilities.
Background
The Syrian Democratic Forces, primarily composed of Kurdish fighters, have been engaged in a protracted conflict in Syria, particularly in the northern regions. The SDF has often clashed with the Syrian Army and other factions vying for control over territory. The strategic destruction of infrastructure, such as bridges, is a common tactic in warfare aimed at disrupting supply lines and hindering enemy movements.
In recent developments, the Syrian Army"s declaration of Deir Hafer as a closed military zone underscores the heightened military presence and the urgency for civilians to evacuate. This situation has been exacerbated by ongoing hostilities in the region, which have led to significant humanitarian concerns.
What"s Next
The implications of the SDF"s actions are profound, as the destruction of these bridges not only isolates Deir Hafer but also complicates the humanitarian situation for civilians trapped in the conflict. With all bridge connections severed, the movement of people and goods is severely restricted, potentially leading to shortages of essential supplies.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the Syrian Army will respond to these tactical maneuvers by the SDF. The ongoing conflict continues to draw international attention, with various factions involved in the struggle for control over strategic locations in Syria.
For more information on the current military situation in Deir Hafer, see our previous reports detailing the Syrian Army"s recent actions and the implications for civilians in the area.
