Syrian Army Clears Over Two-Thirds of Sheikh Maqsoud Neighborhood

January 9, 2026 - The Syrian Army has successfully cleared more than two-thirds of the Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood in Aleppo, according to a military source. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to regain control of areas that have seen significant conflict, particularly with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who have been accused of using civilians as human shields during the military operations.

Key Details

The Syrian Army"s operations in Sheikh Maqsoud have faced numerous challenges, primarily due to the tactics employed by the SDF. Reports indicate that the SDF has positioned themselves within residential homes, complicating the Syrian Army"s efforts to conduct operations without risking civilian lives. This tactic has raised concerns regarding the safety of the local population, as the SDF"s actions may inadvertently put civilians at greater risk.

In the course of the clearing operations, the Syrian Army has reported the successful defusal of dozens of mines, which posed a significant threat to both military personnel and civilians in the area. Additionally, several SDF fighters have been arrested, and a substantial cache of weapons has been seized. This includes heavy, medium, and light weapons, as well as explosives and large quantities of ammunition, which underscores the intensity of the conflict and the level of armament present within the neighborhood.

Once the clearing operations are fully completed, the Syrian Army plans to allow Internal Security forces to enter the area. This step is crucial for establishing law and order in Sheikh Maqsoud, which has been a focal point of conflict and instability in the region.

Background

Sheikh Maqsoud is a neighborhood in Aleppo that has been significantly impacted by the Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011. The area has been a battleground between various factions, including the Syrian government forces and the SDF, which is primarily composed of Kurdish fighters. The SDF has been a key player in the fight against ISIS and has received support from the United States and other Western nations. The dynamics in Sheikh Maqsoud reflect the broader complexities of the Syrian conflict, where multiple groups vie for control and influence.

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What"s Next

The ongoing military operations in Sheikh Maqsoud highlight the Syrian Army"s commitment to regaining control over contested areas. The successful clearing of the neighborhood could pave the way for increased stability in Aleppo, although the situation remains fluid and complex. The involvement of Internal Security forces post-clearing is expected to be a significant step in restoring order and addressing the humanitarian needs of the local population. As previously reported, similar situations have arisen in other areas of Syria, where military operations have led to significant changes in control and governance.

For more on related coverage, see recent developments regarding international military support and its implications in the region.