The Syrian military took control of two neighborhoods in Aleppo, Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafiyeh, on Sunday following clashes with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (S.D.F.). Syrian state media reported that S.D.F. fighters withdrew from the neighborhoods shortly after midnight and were transported by bus to another city in northern Syria, where their weapons would be confiscated.

The S.D.F. characterized the withdrawal as a partial cease-fire intended to prevent further casualties and ensure the safe evacuation of civilians and the wounded. According to the S.D.F., the decision was made to prioritize the safety of the population amidst the escalating violence. The retreat represents a victory for government forces and brought a period of calm to Aleppo, one of Syria's largest cities, after several days of intense fighting.

The recent clashes marked the most significant outbreak of violence in Aleppo since the end of the civil war in December 2024, when Islamist-led rebel groups ousted the government of President Bashar al-Assad. The fighting also represents a setback in relations between the Syrian government and the S.D.F. after months of negotiations aimed at integrating S.D.F. forces into the national military. These negotiations, designed to unify the country and bridge divides among various ethnic and religious groups, have now been complicated by the recent hostilities.

The situation highlights the complex dynamics in post-civil war Syria, where various factions and ethnic groups vie for control and influence. The S.D.F., a key U.S. ally in the fight against ISIS, controls significant territory in northern Syria and has sought greater autonomy within a unified Syrian state. The Syrian government, backed by Russia and Iran, aims to reassert its authority over the entire country.

The future of the S.D.F.'s role in Syria remains uncertain. The recent clashes and breakdown in negotiations could lead to further conflict and instability in the region. Analysts suggest that renewed efforts at dialogue and compromise are necessary to prevent further escalation and to achieve a lasting peace. The Syrian government has not yet issued a formal statement regarding its long-term plans for the newly acquired territories.