Key Facts
- ✓ The leadership in Damascus signed a deal with the SDF in March for it to merge with the Syrian army by the end of 2025.
- ✓ There have been disagreements over how the merger would happen.
Quick Summary
The leadership in Damascus has urged civilians to leave Aleppo as clashes with Kurdish forces continue. The conflict stems from a March agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF regarding military integration.
Despite the signing of a deal for the SDF to merge with the Syrian army by the end of 2025, implementation has been hindered by disagreements. These disputes over the terms of the merger have contributed to the ongoing instability in the region.
Background on the Damascus-SDF Agreement
In March, the leadership in Damascus signed a pivotal agreement with the SDF. The primary objective of this deal was the integration of Kurdish forces into the national military structure.
The agreement outlined a specific timeline for this process. It stipulated that the SDF would fully merge with the Syrian army by the conclusion of 2025. This was intended to unify military command and control within the country.
Disputes Over Integration Terms
Despite the initial signing, the merger process has faced significant obstacles. There have been persistent disagreements between the parties on how the merger would actually take place.
These disputes have stalled progress toward the 2025 deadline. The lack of a unified vision for the integration mechanism has led to increased friction.
Current Clashes in Aleppo
The disagreements over the merger deal have manifested in direct military confrontation. Clashes between Syrian authorities and Kurdish forces have continued in and around Aleppo.
In response to the escalating violence, authorities in Damascus have taken the step of urging civilians to leave the area. This highlights the severity of the current security situation.
Key Facts
- The leadership in Damascus signed a deal with the SDF in March.
- The deal was for the SDF to merge with the Syrian army by the end of 2025.
- There have been disagreements over how the merger would happen.






