Relative calm in Aleppo, risk of renewed clashes remains – spokesperson for the Berio Armenian Diocese
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Following the ceasefire declared in the Kurdish-populated districts of Aleppo, the situation in the city has significantly changed. After three days of nightmare, a relative calm has been established; however, the risk of renewed hostilities persists, former member of the Syrian parliament and media spokesperson for the Berio Armenian Diocese, Maria Gabrielyan, told Armenpress.
According to Gabrielyan, clashes between the Syrian army and Kurdish forces continued until the morning hours. She detailed that the Syrian army was eventually able to enter the areas where the Kurdish forces were deployed. Work is currently underway to withdraw Kurdish forces from the Ashrafiyeh, Sheikh Maqsud, and Bani Zeid districts and relocate them east of the Euphrates.
Military operations have ceased, and displaced residents of the three districts have been called upon to prepare to return to their homes. She noted that the three-day hostilities ended with minimal damage. Gabrielyan said that tensions have re-emerged in the Sheikh Maqsud district, as Kurdish forces have refused to withdraw.
As a result, the Syrian army has issued a new deadline for evacuation. She emphasized that the situation is changing rapidly and that renewed clashes remain possible.
Addressing the condition of the Armenian community, Gabrielyan stated that Armenians were not significantly affected. She reported that several houses were damaged and dozens of windows were shattered.
She added that once the areas are cleared of Kurdish forces, demining operations and security measures should begin. Gabrielyan also said it is expected that all state and educational institutions will resume operations on Sunday.
According to her, the Syrian army announced the opening of humanitarian corridors from 16:00 to 18:00 local time for residents wishing to leave the Sheikh Maqsud district and called on Kurdish forces to surrender their weapons. She warned that failure to comply with these conditions could lead to renewed military action.