The al-Shahba region and refugee camps in northeastern Aleppo Governorate have been completely encircled by jihadist factions of the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) after their capture of the al-Safirah District. The siege puts 250,000 civilians, including Kurdish and Christian communities, in immediate danger.
Turkey has also escalated threats to invade Tell Rifaat, endangering not only displaced civilians but also the Afrin Liberation Forces (HRE). Local sources indicate that the HRE and its allied defenders are prepared to repel attacks.
In northeastern Syria, SNA factions in Ras al-Ayn (Serê Kaniyê) are reportedly preparing for further incursions into the interior of North and East Syria (Rojava). The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have declared their readiness to counter any aggression. (Source: SDF and military updates.)
Meanwhile, the jihadist group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has advanced southwards into areas on the outskirts of Homs, reportedly encountering no resistance from Syrian regime forces. Analysts suggest these regions are being surrendered as part of a strategic retreat.
In Damascus, tensions have risen dramatically, with clashes reported near the Republican Palace on Saturday. Some sources speculate that this may have been a failed coup attempt.
The humanitarian crisis is deepening as civilians in al-Shahba and Aleppo face the looming threat of large-scale conflict. Humanitarian organisations have stressed the urgent need for international action to address the crisis.
These ongoing events highlight the evolving risks to civilians and the shifting dynamics among key actors in Syria’s continuing conflict.
