The U.S. envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, is calling for renewed dialogue between the Syrian government and Kurdish authorities amid escalating tensions following violent clashes in Aleppo. Speaking with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Barrack emphasized the importance of this moment for Syria’s future, suggesting it could lead to a more unified nation where various communities, including Arabs, Kurds, Druze, Christians, Alawites, Turkmen, Assyrians, and others, are respected and included in governance and security institutions. Barrack noted that President Trump acknowledged this as a critical opportunity and indicated a willingness to lift sanctions to support Syria’s progress.
The violence erupted in the predominantly Kurdish neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud, Achrafieh, and Bani Zaid following failed attempts to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syria’s national army. Over five days of clashes have resulted in at least 22 fatalities and many injuries. On the latest reports from Saturday, conflict intensified as two Kurdish fighters reportedly detonated explosives while surrounded by security forces, causing no casualties.
Additionally, an explosive drone struck the Aleppo Governorate building shortly after a press conference held by local officials, although initial reports did not confirm casualties. Syria’s state media blamed the attack on Kurdish fighters, a claim the SDF has denied, asserting that they do not target civilian areas. Throughout the hostilities, both sides have accused each other of violating civilian safety and inflicting harm on hospitals and medical personnel.
The chaos has led to significant displacement, affecting over 140,000 people, many of whom are waiting to return home as military operations continue. Syrian military forces have declared the affected neighborhoods “closed military zones” to facilitate their operations.
Barrack has urged all parties involved to show restraint, stop the violence, and return to negotiation. He cautioned that ongoing hostilities could jeopardize the transitional progress made since the fall of the Assad regime and could invite external interference that would be detrimental to all stakeholders. Furthermore, discussions in Jordan with Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi have shown Jordan’s willingness to assist in achieving a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution concerning the Kurdish fighters in Aleppo.
As the situation unfolds, there remains hope that dialogue could pave the way to stability and peace within the war-torn region, fostering an environment where all communities can coexist and participate in rebuilding Syria.