Syrian army advances into Deir Hafer and Maskana after SDF withdrawal

Syrian government forces have moved into the northern towns of Deir Hafer and Maskana as Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) withdraw, amid renewed clashes and accusations that withdrawal terms were violated.

Syrian army tanks and armoured vehicles entered Deir Hafer on Saturday (17 January) after Kurdish fighters pulled back from the area to avoid further conflict, according to an Associated Press report. The military says it now controls the town and the nearby Jarrah air base, and is clearing mines and explosives as it pushes eastwards.

State media reported clashes near Maskana, where two soldiers were killed and others wounded, even as government forces continued their advance into territory formerly held by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF accused Damascus of violating the terms of a withdrawal agreement by entering the towns before its fighters had fully pulled out, creating what it called a “highly dangerous situation”.

More than 11,000 civilians fled Deir Hafer and Maskana over the past two days, taking side roads to reach government-controlled areas after the offensive began, the AP reported.

The developments come amid broader tensions in eastern Aleppo province, where Syrian government forces and Kurdish fighters have exchanged accusations and limited fire despite mediation efforts to prevent a wider confrontation.

A Reuters report said the United States has urged Syrian troops to halt further advances through Kurdish-held territory, as Washington seeks to avoid further destabilisation. U.S. officials have remained in contact with Kurdish partners as part of ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation, though there was no immediate public comment from the White House.

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