U.S. welcomes ceasefire in Syria's Aleppo after days of clashes

U.S. envoy Tom Barrack on Friday welcomed a ceasefire in the city of Aleppo after days of deadly fighting between the Syrian army and Kurdish SDF.

“The United States warmly welcomes the temporary ceasefire achieved last night in Aleppo’s Ashrafiyeh and Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods and extends profound gratitude to all parties—the Syrian government, the Syrian Democratic Forces, local authorities, and community leaders—for the restraint and goodwill that made this vital pause possible,” U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack said on X.

“With sustained cooperation and by the grace of the One God whom all our communities revere in their own light, we are hopeful this weekend will bring a more enduring calm and deeper dialogue. In times of crisis, fresh clarity often emerges. This truce begins the vital work of guiding Syria’s diverse lanes—its communities and neighboring nations—onto a single shared highway toward security, inclusion, and lasting peace. Speed bumps will arise, but our common destination clearly favors cooperation over confrontation. We are working intensively to extend this ceasefire and spirit of understanding beyond this morning’s 9 o’clock deadline,” he added.

The fighting between government forces and Kurdish fighters killed at least 21 people and displaced thousands since January 6.  The Syrian Ministry of Defense has announced a ceasefire in the neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Bani Zaid in Aleppo, aiming to “end the military situation there and pave the way for the restoration of law and official institutions,” the Syrian SANA news agency reported. The ministry requested that armed groups in Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, and Bani Zaid leave the area starting at 03:00 after midnight, with the deadline set at 09:00 a.m., Friday.

Departing armed groups are permitted to carry only their personal light weapons. The Syrian Arab Army pledged to provide escort and ensure their safe passage until they reach areas in the northeast of the country.