East Aleppo offensive (2024–2025)

{{Short description|SDF operation against Syrian National Army in eastern Aleppo Governorate}}

{{Infobox military conflict

| conflict = East Aleppo offensive

| partof = Syrian civil war, the Turkish offensive in northern Syria (2024–present) and Turkish involvement in the Syrian civil war

| image = {{CSS image crop |Image = Operation Dawn of Freedom.jpg |bSize = 1500 |cWidth = 300 |cHeight = 200 |oLeft = 200 |oTop = 200}}

| caption = Territorial control in Manbij

| date = 23 December 2024 – 22 February 2025 ({{Age in months, weeks and days|year1=2024|month1=12|day1=23|year2=2025|month2=2|day=22}})

22 February 2025 – present (skirmishes) ({{Age in months, weeks and days|year1=2025|month1=2|day1=23|year2=2025|month=4|day=12}}){{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/124323/|title=SDF Commander details Tishrin Dam agreement, Syrian political talks|date=13 April 2025|work=North Press Agency|access-date=15 April 2025}}

| place = East Aleppo Governorate, Syria

| coordinates =

| result = SDF victory{{Cite web|url=https://shafaq.com/en/World/Damascus-SDF-begin-joint-control-of-Tishrin-Dam|title=Damascus, SDF begin joint control of Tishrin Dam|website=Shafaq News|date=12 April 2025|access-date=15 April 2025}}

SDF secure both bridges and surrounding areas
Several failed attempts by SNA to recapture the Tishrin Dam{{cite web |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/manbij-council-fighters-repel-turkish-occupation-attacks-on-tishrin-villages |title=Manbij Council fighters repel Turkish occupation attacks on Tishrin villages |website=Hawar News Agency |publisher=Hawar News Agency |date=28 December 2024 |access-date=28 December 2024}}
SDF hands over joint control of Tishrin Dam to the Syrian transitional government following an agreement

| status =

| combatant1 = {{flag|Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria}}

| combatant2 = {{flagicon|Syria|revolution}} Syrian Transitional Government
{{flag|Turkey}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352371/|title=Manbij {{!}} Exchange of bombardment between SDF and Turkish forces leaves several civilians injured|publisher=SOHR|date=28 December 2024|access-date=3 January 2025|language=en-US}}

| commander1 = {{flagicon|Rojava}} Salih Muslim Muhammad
{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syrian_Democratic_Forces.svg}} Mazlum Abdi
{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syrian_Democratic_Forces.svg}} Ferhad Şamî
{{flagicon image|Infobox Manbij Military Council flag.png}} Shervan Derwish
{{flagicon image|Infobox Manbij Military Council flag.png}} Dilsuz Hashme
Mohammed Raouf
{{flagicon image|People's Protection Units Flag.svg|border=no}} Nuri Mahmoud
{{flagicon image|People's Protection Units Flag.svg|border=no}} Polat Can
{{flagicon image|YPJ Flag.svg}} Nesrin Abdullah

| commander2 = {{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Abdurrahman Mustafa
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Fadlallah al-Haji
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Adnan al-Ahmad
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Abu Amsha{{cite web|title=Suleiman Shah Brigade|url=https://www.counterextremism.com/armed-opposition-groups-nw-syria/suleiman-shah-brigade|website=counterextremism.com |access-date=29 January 2025}}
{{flagicon image|Sultan Murat Tümeni Flag.svg}} Munir Hajak{{KIA}}
{{flagicon image|Sultan Murat Tümeni Flag.svg}} Ahmed Othman
{{flagicon image|Flag of Turkish Land Forces Command.svg}} Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu
{{flagicon image|Flag of Turkish Land Forces Command.svg}} Metin Gürak
{{flagicon image|Flag of Turkish Air Force Command.svg}} Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu

| units1 = {{tree list}}

{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syrian_Democratic_Forces.svg}} Syrian Democratic Forces
{{flagicon image|Infobox Manbij Military Council flag.png}} Manbij Military Council
Tabqa Military Council{{cite web|title=Tabqa Military Council Forces Countering the Turkish Occupation Attacks in Maskana|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2024/12/tabqa-military-council-forces-countering-the-turkish-occupation-attacks-in-maskana/|website=SDF Press |access-date=29 January 2025 |date= 7 December 2024}}
{{flagicon image|People's Protection Units Flag.svg|border=no}} People's Protection Units
{{flagicon image|YPJ Flag.svg}} Women's Protection Units
Martyr Haroun Units{{cite web|last1=Braverman|first1=Alexandra|last2=Reddy|first2=Ria|last3=Moorman|first3=Carolyn|last4=Moore|first4=Johanna|last5=Rezaei|first5=Ben|last6=Borens |first6=Avery|last7=Carl|first7=Nicholas|date=31 January 2025|title=Iran Update, January 31, 2025|url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-31-2025|access-date=31 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}}

| units2 = {{tree list}}

{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Syrian National Army
{{flagicon image|Sultan Murat Tümeni Flag.svg}} Sultan Murad Division
{{flagicon image|Sultan Suleiman Shah Division Emblem Infobox.svg}} Sultan Suleiman Shah Brigade
{{flagdeco|Turkey}} Turkish Armed Forces
{{flagicon image|Flag of Turkish Land Forces Command.svg}} Turkish Land Forces
{{flagicon image|Flag of Turkish Air Force Command.svg}} Turkish Air Force

| casualties1 = Per SOHR:
{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syrian_Democratic_Forces.svg}} 114 killed (since 12 December 2024){{efn|{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/360267/|title= Violation of truce {{!}} Turkish drone targets military vehicle in northern Al-Raqqah|work= SOHR|date= 19 April 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/358916/|title=Landmine explosion {{!}} Two members of “Al-Asayish” killed on frontline of Qorah Qozak Bridge|work=SOHR|date= 29 March 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/358019/|title=Turkish artillery fire {{!}} SDF fighter killed in northern Al-Raqqah|work=SOHR|date=18 March 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356421/|title=Killing and injuring five fighters {{!}} Turkish fighter jets attack SDF position in Aleppo countryside|work=SOHR|date= 20 February 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357235/|title= Military escalation {{!}} Two members of “SDF” killed under exchanged attacks with National Army in Manbij|work= SOHR|date= 5 March 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356826/|title=Death toll update {{!}} 12 people killed under attack by Turkish drone on Deir Ezzor|work=SOHR|date= 26 February 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356513/|title=Old ordnance {{!}} Two members of “SDF” died in explosion of landmine in Ain Al-Arab (Kobani)|work= SOHR|date= 21 February 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/355970/|title=New attack {{!}} Turkish drone attacks truck of Essential Protection Forces, leaving three members dead and injured in Al-Raqqah countryside|work=SOHR}}}}
{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syrian_Democratic_Forces.svg}} Dozens wounded{{efn|{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352994/|title=Military escalation {{!}} Turkish drone attacks vehicle in eastern Tishreen dam and house in Sarrin town in Ain Al-Arab countryside|work=SOHR|date= 5 January 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/353141/|title=Renewed clashes {{!}} Fierce clashes between SDF and Turkish-backed factions on Teshreen dam frontline leave four combatants dead and wounded|work= SOHR|date= 7 January 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352609/|title=Ground and aerial escalation {{!}} Ten members of "Al-Asayish" killed and injured on a checkpoint in Aleppo|work=SOHR|date= 31 December 2024}}}}
SDF claim:
{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syrian_Democratic_Forces.svg}} 88 killed (as of 13 January 2025){{cite web |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/over-course-of-38-days-what-are-the-official-statistics-of-battles-in-nesyria |title=Over Course of 38 Days: What Are the Official Statistics of Battles in NE Syria? |website=Hawar News |access-date=9 February 2025|date=15 January 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://hawarnews.com/tr/qsd-farkli-yerlerde-sehit-dusen-7-savascinin-kimligini-acikladi|title= 7 SDF members were killed|work=Hawar News Agency|date= 17 February 2025}}

| casualties2 = Per SOHR:
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} 488 killed (since 12 December 2024){{efn|{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/358418/|title=Ongoing escalation {{!}} Three members of “National Army” kil*led under attack by drone of “SDF” in Teshreen Dam|date=23 March 2025}}}}
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Dozens wounded{{efn|{{Cite web |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356986/|title= Military escalation Eight members of pro-Turkey factions kil*led and injured on Aleppo’s frontlines |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |access-date=1 March 2025 |date=1 March 2025}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356986/ |title=Military escalation Eight members of pro-Turkey factions kil*led and injured on Aleppo’s frontlines |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |access-date=1 March 2025|date=1 March 2025}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354436/ |title=Amid renewal of Turkish airstrikes on eastern Aleppo - 17 people, including female leader of SDF, killed and injured |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |access-date=8 February 2025 |date=25 January 2025}}}}
{{Flagicon|Turkey}} 6 killed, 11 injured{{efn|{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357300/|title= Following attack by drone of SDF {{!}} Turkish soldier killed near Qarah Qouzaq bridge in Ain Al-Arab countryside|work= SOHR|date= 6 March 2025}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/355818/ |title=Ongoing escalation Two Turkish soldiers killed and military site destroyed in SDF attack on Qarra Quzaq frontline |date=13 January 2025 |work=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354557/ |title= Affected by wounds - Turkish soldier di*es after attack by SDF in Al-Hasakah|work=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=27 January 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354684/|title=Exchange of attacks - Turkish officer kil*led and two others injured in attack by SDF on Turkish base in northwestern Al-Hasakah |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |access-date=29 January 2025 |date=29 January 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/355768/|title=New attack by SDF Non-commissioned officer of Turkish forces kil*led in Manbij countryside |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |access-date=12 February 2025 |date=12 February 2025}}}}
{{Flagicon|Turkey}} 19 Turkish drones
(2 Bayraktar TB2 drones destroyed{{efn|{{cite web |title=While flying over Qarrah Qarquzaq bridge: SDF shoot down Turkish drone in southern Ain Al-Arab (Kobani) |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352712/ |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |date= |access-date=2 January 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/353233/|title=Ongoing clashes | "SDF" shoots Turkish drone "Bayraktar" down near Teshrin Dam in Manbij|work=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=7 January 2025|accessdate=17 January 2025}}}}
17 small drones destroyed){{efn|{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357658/|title=Amid artillery fire on Ain Al-Arab (Kobani) and Qarrah Quzaq bridge | SDF shoot down three Turkish drones|work=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=13 March 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/358578/|title=Aleppo SDF shoot down two Turkish drones near Teshreen dam|work=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=25 March 2025|access-date=25 March 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357578/|title=After series of Turkish airstrikes | SDF shoot down four drones flying over Aleppo countryside and drone attacks leave Turkish soldiers injured|work=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=12 March 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356906/|title=Amid growing military tension {{!}} SDF shoot down four Turkish drones near Teshreen dam and Qarquzaq bridge|work=SOHR|date= 28 February 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356601/?doing_wp_cron=1740313509.4751279354095458984375|title=Amid Turkish artillery fire and clashes on different frontlines | SDF foil attack and shoot down kamikaze drone in Aleppo countryside|work=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=23 February 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356460/|title=Military escalation | SDF shoot down Turkish drone over western Ain Al-Arab countryside - The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=21 February 2025}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356362/|title=Aleppo | SDF shoot down two Turkish drones near Teshreen dam and Deir Hafer - The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=20 February 2025}}}}
{{Flagicon|Turkey}} 3 radar system destroyed{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357631/|title=Military escalation | Drones of “SDF” attack Turkish bases and destroy equipment and machineries|work=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=12 March 2025}}
SDF claim:
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} 324 killed{{cite web |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/16-military-vehicles-of-turkish-mercenaries-destroyed-including-3-tanks-southeast-of-manbij-and-north-of-tishrin-dam |title=16 military vehicles of Turkish mercenaries destroyed, including 3 tanks, southeast of Manbij and north of Tishrin Dam |website=Hawar News Agency |publisher=Hawar News Agency |date=28 December 2024 |access-date=28 December 2024}}{{cite web |url=https://sdf-press.com/en/amp/2025/01/in-a-qualitative-operation-by-our-forces-dozens-of-mercenaries-eliminated-and-injured-including-turkish-occupation-soldiers/ |title=In a Qualitative Operation by Our Forces, Dozens of Mercenaries Eliminated and Injured Including Turkish Occupation Soldiers |website=SDF Press |publisher=Syrian Democratic Forces |date=1 January 2025 |access-date=1 January 2025}}{{cite web |url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/dozens-of-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-eliminated-and-wounded-and-several-tanks-and-military-vehicles-destroyed-in-tishreen-dam-and-deir-hafer/ |title=Dozens of Turkish occupation mercenaries eliminated and wounded, and several tanks and military vehicles destroyed in Tishreen Dam and Deir Hafer |website=SDF Press |publisher=Syrian Democratic Forces |date=1 January 2025 |access-date=1 January 2025}}
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} Dozens wounded{{cite web |url=https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/818177/heavy-casualties-reported-among-turkish-backed-fighters-in-manbij-dayr-hafir-clashes|title= Heavy casualties reported among Turkish-backed fighters in Manbij, Dayr Hafir clashes|publisher=Kurdistan 24|date=4 January 2025|access-date=5 January 2025}}
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg}} 25+ vehicles destroyed{{cite web |title=Violent clashes in south-east Manbij, destroying many vehicles |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/violent-clashes-in-south-east-manbij-destroying-many-vehicles |website=Hawar News Agency |access-date=2 January 2025}}
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} 40+ armored vehicles and 8 tanks destroyed, 2 tanks seized{{efn| 1 tank and 2 armored vehicles destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2024/12/on-the-13th-day-of-clashes-in-the-vicinity-of-tishreen-dam-35-turkish-mercenaries-eliminated/|title=On the 13th day of clashes in the vicinity of Tishreen Dam: 35 Turkish mercenaries Eliminated|work=SDF Press|date=21 December 2025|accessdate=31 January 2025}} 2 tanks seized and 1 armored vehicle destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2024/12/our-forces-repel-the-attack-of-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-in-manbij-eastern-countryside/|title=Our Forces Repel the Attack of Turkish Occupation Mercenaries in Manbij Eastern Countryside|work=SDF Press|date=24 December 2025|accessdate=31 January 2025}} 1 armored vehicle destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2024/12/12-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-were-eliminated-during-clashes-in-the-southeastern-countryside-of-manbij/|title=12 Turkish occupation mercenaries were eliminated during clashes in the southeastern countryside of Manbij|work=SDF Press|date=26 December 2025|accessdate=31 January 2025}} 1 armored vehicle destroyed, 1 armored vehicle destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://hawarnews.com/en/turkish-occupation-armored-vehicle-destroyed-east-of-manbij|title=Turkish occupation armored vehicle destroyed east of Manbij|work=Hawar News Agency|date=2 January 2025|access-date=28 January 2025}} 1 BMB destroyed and 1 tank disabled{{cite web|url=https://hawarnews.com/en/mmc-blows-up-bmb-tank-of-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-in-manbij|title=MMC blows up BMB tank of Turkish occupation mercenaries in Manbij|work=Hawar News Agency|date=2 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 1 tank and 6 armored vehicles destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://hawarnews.com/en/sdf-destroys-tank-military-vehicles-in-response-to-turkish-mercenaries-attacks|title=SDF destroys tank, military vehicles in response to Turkish mercenaries' attacks|work=Hawar News Agency|date=2 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 1 armored vehicle destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://hawarnews.com/en/moment-armored-vehicle-destroyed-by-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-in-manbij|title=Moment armored vehicle destroyed by Turkish occupation mercenaries in Manbij|work=Hawar News Agency|date=5 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 2 APCs and 1 armored vehicle destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/tishreen-dam-resistance-our-forces-thwart-all-the-attacks-of-the-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-eliminating-and-wounding-many-of-them/|title=Tishreen Dam Resistance - Our Forces Thwart All the Attacks of the Turkish Occupation Mercenaries, Eliminating and Wounding Many of Them|work=SDF Press|date=7 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 1 tank destroyed and several BMBs damaged,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/our-forces-repel-the-attacks-of-the-turkish-occupation-and-its-mercenaries-on-southeastern-manbij-eliminating-dozens-of-mercenaries-and-wounding-others/|title=Our Forces Repel the Attacks of the Turkish Occupation and its Mercenaries on Southeastern Manbij, Eliminating Dozens of Mercenaries and Wounding Others|work=SDF Press|date=8 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 3 armored vehicles, 1 APC and 1 BMB destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/our-forces-destroy-the-mercenaries-vehicles-eliminating-and-wounding-dozens-of-mercenaries-southeast-of-manbij/|title=Our Forces Destroy the Mercenaries’ Vehicles, Eliminating and Wounding Dozens of Mercenaries Southeast of Manbij|work=SDF Press|date=13 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 5 armored vehicles destroyed{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/the-outcome-of-mondays-clashes-and-battles-on-the-fronts-north-of-tishreen-dam-and-qara-qwzaq-bridge/|title=The Outcome of Monday’s Clashes and Battles on the Fronts North of Tishreen Dam and Qara Qwzaq Bridge|work=SDF Press|date=14 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 16 vehicles including 3 tanks destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://hawarnews.com/en/16-military-vehicles-of-turkish-mercenaries-destroyed-including-3-tanks-southeast-of-manbij-and-north-of-tishrin-dam|title=16 military vehicles of Turkish mercenaries destroyed, including 3 tanks southeast of Manbij and north of Tishrin Dam|work=Hawar News Agency|date=15 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 3 tanks and 5 vehicles destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/dozens-of-turkish-occupation-mercenaries-eliminated-and-wounded-and-several-tanks-and-military-vehicles-destroyed-in-tishreen-dam-and-deir-hafer/|title=Dozens of Turkish occupation mercenaries eliminated and wounded, and several tanks and military vehicles destroyed in Tishreen Dam and Deir Hafer|work=SDF Press|date=20 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 4 armored vehicles destroyed,{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/several-mercenaries-eliminated-and-their-vehicles-destroyed-on-the-fronts-of-tishreen-dam-and-deir-hafer/|title=Several Mercenaries Eliminated and their Vehicles Destroyed on the Fronts of Tishreen Dam and Deir Hafer|work=SDF Press|date=21 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}} 1 tank destroyed {{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/the-outcome-of-our-legitimate-response-to-attacks-of-the-turkish-occupation-and-its-mercenaries-on-january-27-2025/|title=The Outcome of our Legitimate Response to Attacks of the Turkish Occupation and its Mercenaries on January 27, 2025|work=SDF Press|date=28 January 2025|accessdate=28 January 2025}}}}
{{Flagicon|Turkey}} 2 radar jamming systems destroyed{{cite web |title=Destruction of 2 radar jamming system and armored vehicles of Turkish occupation |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/destruction-of-2-radar-jamming-system-and-armored-vehicles-of-turkish-occupation |website=Hawar News Agency |date=30 December 2025 |access-date=2 January 2025}}
{{Flag icon|Turkey}} 3 Bayraktar TB2 destroyed
{{Flag icon|Turkey}} 1 TAI Anka and 1 TAI Aksungur destroyed
{{Flag icon|Turkey}} 2 T-155 Fırtına destroyed{{cite web|url=https://sdf-press.com/en/2025/01/the-outcome-of-our-legitimate-response-to-attacks-of-the-turkish-occupation-and-its-mercenaries-on-january-28-2025/|title=The Outcome of our Legitimate Response to Attacks of the Turkish Occupation and its Mercenaries on January 28, 2025|work=SDF Press|date=29 January 2025|accessdate=29 January 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://t.me/sdf_press/3702|title=In response to the Turkish occupation crimes in Zarkan and Ain Issa, our forces destroyed two artillery types (Firtina T-155) belonging to the Turkish occupation in southwestern Manbij|work=SDF Press Telegram|date=28 January 2025|accessdate=29 January 2025}}
Per Turkey:
{{Flag icon|Turkey}} 1 killed{{cite web|url=https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/gundem/suriyenin-kuzeyinde-yaralanan-uzman-cavus-osman-oktay-tedavi-gordugu-hastanede-sehit-oldu/3481040#:~:text=A%C3%A7%C4%B1klamada%252C%2520%2522Piyade%2520Uzman%2520%C3%87avu%C5%9F%2520Osman,%C5%9Eubat%25202025%2520tarihinde%2520%C5%9Fehit%2520olmu%C5%9Ftur.|title=Suriye'nin kuzeyinde yaralanan Uzman Çavuş Osman Oktay, tedavi gördüğü hastanede şehit oldu|publisher=Anadolu Ajansı|date=13 February 2025|access-date=13 February 2025|language=Tr}}{{bsn|date=March 2025}}

| casualties3 = 73 civilians killed (since 12 December 2024){{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357897/|title=New horrific massacre {{!}} Family of nine killed in Turkish airstrikes on Ain Al-Arab countryside|work=SOHR|date= 17 March 2025}}

| campaignbox = {{Campaignbox Syrian civil war}}

}}

The East Aleppo offensive was an operation launched by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in December 2024 against the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) to secure territory that was lost during the Manbij offensive and to advance from Dayr Hafir into the Tishrin Dam area.{{Cite web |date=23 December 2024 |title=SDF launches counterattack at Tishrin Dam |url=https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/23122024 |access-date=23 December 2024 |website=Rudaw}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.euronews.com/2024/12/24/kurdish-forces-fight-back-against-turkish-backed-rebels-amid-clashes-in-northern-syria|title=Kurdish forces fight back against Turkish-backed rebels amid clashes in northern Syria|first=|last=|date=24 December 2024|access-date=|website=Euronews|language=en-US}} The fighting took place in the context of the Turkish offensive in northern Syria and was part of the longer term conflict between Turkey (and its local allies) and the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES), occurring in the aftermath of the fall of the Assad regime. The fighting resulted in the SDF securing both bridges, Tishrin Dam and surrounding areas. Tishrin Dam and other areas were later handed over to the Syrian transitional government on 12 April, following a peace agreement.{{Cite web|url=https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/sdf-withdraw-key-syrian-dam-after-agreement-damascus|title=SDF withdraws from key Syrian dam after agreement with Damascus|website=Middle East Eye}}{{Cite web |date=12 April 2025 |title=Syrian forces deploy at key dam under deal with Kurds: media |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250412-syrian-forces-deploy-at-key-dam-under-deal-with-kurds-media |access-date=12 April 2025 |website=France 24 |language=en}}

Background

Following the SNA capture of Manbij city on 11 December, a temporary ceasefire agreement in the region was reached between the SNA and SDF through U.S. mediation.{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/syrian-democratic-forces-rebels-reach-us-brokered-ceasefire-agreement-manbij-sdf-2024-12-10/|title=Syrian democratic forces, rebels reach US-brokered ceasefire agreement in Manbij, SDF commander says|first=|last=|date=11 December 2024|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Reuters|language=en-US}} However, military activities did not cease, which eventually resulted in fighting in the Kobani countryside. In addition, the SNA refused the evacuation of SDF fighters or civilians from Manbij, executed captured SDF soldiers and attempted offensive operations against the SDF, resulting in fighting near the Tishrin Dam.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/351099/|title=Having been besieged by faction | Injured combatants of "Manbij Military Council Forces" extrajudicially executed in eastern Aleppo - The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=10 December 2024}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/351709/|title=Military escalation | Members of "National Army" kil*led and injured in an attack in Al-Raqqa - The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=17 December 2024}}{{Cite web |date=11 December 2024 |title=Manbij: Field Executions, Looting, and Displacement Without Accountability |url=https://hevdesti.org/en/en-manbij-fielf-executions-looting-and-displacement-without-accountability/ |access-date=22 February 2025 |website=Synergy Association for Victims |language=en-US}} The following week, the SNA stated that they ended the US-brokered ceasefire with the SDF.{{cite web|url=https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2024/12/turkey-backed-syrian-factions-end-us-mediated-ceasefire-kurdish-led-sdf|title=Turkey-backed Syrian factions end US-mediated ceasefire with Kurdish-led SDF|first=Amberin|last=Zaman|date=16 December 2024|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Al-Monitor}} Turkey stated that the ceasefire did not exist.{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/19/turkiye-refutes-us-claims-of-ceasefire-with-syrian-kurdish-fighters|title=Turkiye refutes US claims of ceasefire with Syrian Kurdish fighters|first=|last=|date=19 December 2024|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Al Jazeera English}}

The offensive comes around the same time in which several Syrian rebel factions agreed with de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to dissolve their groups and to fall under the country's new Ministry of Defense. The SDF did not participate in this meeting in Damascus.{{cite web|url=https://news.sky.com/story/some-syrian-rebel-factions-agree-to-dissolve-under-new-leadership-but-fighting-continues-in-north-13279690|title=Some Syrian rebel factions agree to dissolve under new leadership - but fighting continues in north|first=Ollie|last=Cooper|date=24 December 2024|access-date=5 February 2025|website=Sky News}} The offensive resulted in the SDF securing both bridges as well as surrounding areas, which was later handed over to the Syrian transitional government, following an agreement under Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Offensive

= SDF advances and capture of the Tishrin Dam =

The Manbij Military Council of the SDF initiated an offensive against the Syrian National Army near the Tishrin Dam on 23 December 2024.{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/120110/|title=SDF initiates counter-offensive against SNA factions in Syria's Manbij|first=|last=|date=23 December 2024|access-date=24 December 2024|website=North Press Agency|language=en-US}} The SDF managed to take control over several villages south east of Manbij.{{cite web |last1=Moore |first1=Johanna |last2=Reddy|first2=Ria |last3=Ganzeveld |first3=Annika |last4=Campa |first4=Kelly |last5=Moorman|first5=Carolyn|last6=Carl |first6=Nicholas |date=23 December 2024 |title=Iran Update, December 23, 2024|url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-december-23-2024|access-date=21 February 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352066/|title=After taking control of three villages {{!}} SDF and military formations take control of surroundings of Tishrin Dam and launch combing operation|publisher=SOHR|date=23 December 2024|access-date=24 December 2024|language=en-US}}

The following day, SDF started assaults in two different directions. At the Dayr Hafir front, the SDF advanced from the Jirah Military Airbase along the west bank of the Euphrates where they took control of the Babiri water pumping station, five kilometres south of the town of Al-Khafsah and advanced from the Tishrin Dam into the Abu Qalqal district. Further north, fighting also started around the Qarah Qawzak bridge. A spokesperson of the Women's Protection Units (YPJ) stated that its fighters were located just over 11 kilometers (7 miles) away from the center of Manbij city.{{Cite web |date=26 December 2024 |title=Iran Update, December 24, 2024 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-december-26-2024 |access-date=26 February 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}}{{cite web|url=https://apnews.com/article/syria-kurds-turkey-sdf-manbij-kobani-84928d1755cc09c239fe00074291ff0f|title=Kurdish-led forces push back Turkish-backed Syrian rebels in a tense offensive|first1=Kareem|last1=Chehayeb|first2=Hogir|last2=Al Abdo|date=24 December 2024|access-date=25 December 2024|website=AP News}}{{cite web |last1=Kishore |first1=Siddhant |last2=Moorman |first2=Carolyn |last3=Braverman |first3=Alexandra |last4=Parry |first4=Andie |last5=Reddy |first5=Ria|last6=Campa |first6=Kelly |last7=Rezaei |first7=Ben |last8=Borens |first8=Avery |last9=Carter |first9=Brian |date=26 December 2024 |title=Iran Update, December 26, 2024|url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-december-26-2024|access-date=21 February 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} On 26 December, the Turkish Ministry of Defense announced that the SNA had taken control of the Tishreen Dam, but SDF spokesperson Ferhad Şamî refuted these claims, posting a video of himself at the dam.{{Cite web|url=https://manage.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/261220244 |archive-url=|archive-date=|last=|first=|date=26 December 2024|title=SDF denies militants' takeover of crucial dam near Manbij|access-date=27 December 2024|website=Rudaw}}{{Cite web|url=https://anfenglishmobile.com/rojava-syria/ferhad-shami-refutes-turkish-claims-tishrin-dam-is-completely-in-the-hands-of-sdf-forces-77108|archive-url=|archive-date=|last=|first=|date=26 December 2024|title=Ferhad Shami refutes Turkish claims: Tishrin Dam is completely in the hands of SDF forces|access-date=27 December 2024|website=ANF News}} The next morning, fighting reached the surroundings of the Najm castle.{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352308/|title=Military escalation {{!}} Fierce clashes erupt between SDF and "National Army" near Najm fortress and Teshreen dam in east Aleppo countryside|publisher=SOHR|date=27 December 2024|access-date=|language=en-US}}

Between 27 and 31 December, the clashes continued mainly in the Abu Qalqal direction, where the SDF claimed to have captured three villages west of the Tishrin Dam.{{cite web |last1=Moore |first1=Johanna |last2=Moorman|first2=Carolyn |last3=Ganzeveld |first3=Annika |last4=Rezaei |first4=Ben |last5=Carter|first5=Brian |date=28 December 2024 |title=Iran Update, December 28, 2024|url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-december-28-2024|access-date=21 February 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} During the fighting, the SDF claimed to have killed Abu Fayez, the commander of the SNA-affiliated North Commando Brigade.{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/120286/|title=SDF kills 17 Turkish-backed SNA militants in Syria’s Manbij|first=Malin|last=Muhammad|date=28 December 2024|access-date=21 February 2025|website=North Press Agency|language=en-US}} The SDF also expressed concerns that the Turkish Armed Forces are establishing two military bases in the Manbij countryside.{{Cite web|url=https://manage.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/301220241|archive-url=|archive-date=|last=|first=|date=30 December 2024|title=SDF claims Turkey building two military bases near Manbij|access-date=31 December 2024|website=Rudaw}} The Deputy Press Secretary of the Pentagon, Sabrina Singh, stated during a press briefing that the US-brokered ceasefire around the city of Manbij is "still holding" despite the concurrent fighting.{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/ceasefire-between-turkey-us-backed-sdf-northern-syria-holding-pentagon-says-2024-12-30/|title=Ceasefire between Turkey and US-backed SDF in northern Syria holding, Pentagon says|first=|last=|date=30 December 2024|access-date=31 December 2024|website=Reuters|language=en-US}}

In early January 2025, both sides attacked each other with drone strikes, including a Turkish drone strike targeting the sugar factory in Dayr Hafir.{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352723/|title=Military escalation {{!}} Turkish drone attacks sugar factory in Aleppo countryside|publisher=SOHR|date=1 January 2025|access-date=3 January 2025|language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Turkish UCAV bombs sugar factory in Tabqa |url=https://anfenglish.com/rojava-syria/turkish-ucav-bombs-sugar-factory-in-tabqa-77209 |access-date=22 February 2025 |website=ANF News |language=en}} The SNA, backed by Turkish artillery, launched an attack on Khirbet Zamalah south of the Tishrin dam.{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352724/|title=Amid Turkish bombardment {{!}} "National Army" factions attack village near Tishreen Dam in Aleppo countryside|publisher=SOHR|date=1 January 2025|access-date=3 January 2025|language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Samir Kr. |date=10 January 2025 |title=Frontline between the Syrian Democratic Forces and Syrian National Army |url=https://war-times.com/?p=5111 |access-date=22 February 2025 |website=war-times.com |language=en-US}} The SDF on their part managed to down a Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drone in the southern Kobani countryside.{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/120457/|title=Kurdish-led SDF Downs Turkish Drone Amid Ongoing Tensions in Northern Syria|first=Kardo|last=Roj|date=1 January 2025|access-date=21 February 2025|website=North press agency|language=en-US}} Continued clashes between SDF and SNA forces occurred west of the Tishrin dam and further north near the Qarah Qawzak bridge. At least 50 SNA and 12 SDF fighters were killed in the clashes.{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/120520/|title=Syria's Manbij Military Council Repels Turkish-Backed Faction Attacks|first=|last=|date=2 January 2025|access-date=3 January 2025|website=North Press Agency|language=en-US}}{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/middle-east/2025/01/03/24-killed-as-pro-ankara-factions-clash-with-syria-s-kurdish-led-sdf|title=24 killed as pro-Ankara factions clash with Syria’s Kurdish-led SDF|first=|last=|date=3 January 2025|access-date=21 February 2025|website=Al Arabiya English}} The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) assessed that the SDF may seek to link-up their forces with these two advances to strengthen supply lines.{{cite web |last1=Campa |first1=Kelly |last2=Parry |first2=Andie |last3=Braverman |first3=Alexandra |last4=Moorman |first4=Carolyn |last5=Wells |first5=Katherine|last6=Moore |first6=Johanna |last7=Rezaei |first7=Ben |last8=Borens |first8=Avery |last9=Carter |first9=Brian |date=2 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 2, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-2-2025|access-date=3 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} Local media reported at the time that the US was building bases near the city of Kobane{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/120479/|title=U.S.-led Global Coalition begins establishing new base in Kobani|first=Fatah|last=Issa|date=2 January 2025|access-date=3 January 2025|website=North Press Agency|language=en-US}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352729/|title=Preparations for establishing new base {{!}} US forces bring in cement blocks to Ain Al-Arab (Kobani)|publisher=SOHR|date=2 January 2025|access-date=3 January 2025|language=en-US}} though the reports have been denied by the Pentagon.{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/middle-east/2025/01/03/pentagon-vehemently-denies-reports-of-new-us-base-in-syria-s-kobani|title=Pentagon vehemently denies reports of new US base in Syria's Kobani|work=Al Arabiya|date=3 January 2025|accessdate=3 January 2025}} On 4 January, clashes continued in the vicinity of Sad Teshrin and Jisr Qarqozak, leaving 20 SNA and 11 SDF fighters dead.{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352950/|title=Military escalation {{!}} 28 members of "SDF" and Turkish-backed factions including a commander of "Al-Sultan Murad" kil*led and injured in Aleppo|work=SOHR|date= 4 January 2025}}

= SNA reinforcements and counterattacks =

In the Dayr Hafir direction, the SNA reportedly managed to outflank the most southern advance of the SDF seizing a couple of villages south of Maskanah.{{cite web |last1=Wells |first1=Katherine |last2=Braverman |first2=Alexandra |last3=Kishore |first3=Siddhant |last4=Campa |first4=Kelly |last5=Carter |first5=Brian |date=5 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 5, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-5-2025|access-date=24 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} Meanwhile, the first talks between the new Syrian government and the SDF emerged in Damascus.{{Cite web|url=https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/06012025|date=6 January 2025|title=Damascus in talks with SDF, SNA over ‘disputed’ areas: Minister|access-date=24 January 2025|website=Rudaw}} The SNA began bringing in reinforcements towards the Tishrin direction on 8 January and additionally redeployed to other SNA-SDF frontlines suggesting a potential offensive against the SDF from the "Peace Spring" area.{{cite web |last1=Campa |first1=Kelly |last2=Parry |first2=Andie |last3=Ganzeveld |first3=Annika |last4=Braverman |first4=Alexandra |last5=Rezaei |first5=Ben |last6=Wells |first6=Katherine |last7=Kishore |first7=Siddhant |last8=Moorman |first8=Carolyn |last9=Reddy |first9=Ria |last10=Borens |first10=Avery |last11=Carter |first11=Brian |date=8 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 8, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-8-2025|access-date=24 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, threatened to launch a military operation against the Kurdish forces in northern Syria if the YPG does not abandon Syria.{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/8/turkiye-threatens-military-action-against-kurdish-forces-in-syria|title=Turkiye threatens military action against Kurdish forces in Syria|first=|last=|date=8 January 2025|access-date=24 January 2025|website=Al Jazeera English|archive-date=|archive-url=|url-status=}}

Between 9 and 18 January the SNA continued to press the SDF bridgehead at the Tishrin Dam retaking two hills northwest of it.{{cite web |last1=Ganzeveld |first1=Annika |last2=Moorman |first2=Carolyn |last3=Reddy |first3=Ria |last4=Rezaei |first4=Ben |last5=Campa |first5=Kelly |last6=Borens |first6=Avery |last7=Carl |first7=Nicholas |date=10 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 10, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-10-2025|access-date=24 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} On the southern side of the salient fighting took place in the villages of Atshana and Khirbet Zamalah.{{cite web |last1=Ganzeveld |first1=Annika |last2=Moore |first2=Johanna |last3=Moorman |first3=Carolyn |last4=Rezaei |first4=Ben |last5=Reddy |first5=Ria |last6=Carter |first6=Brian |date=18 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 18, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-18-2025|access-date=24 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} Over 70 SNA and 14 SDF fighters were reportedly killed during the clashes.{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/353344/|title=Amid intensive airstrikes {{!}} Fierce clashes and attacks by Turkish forces in Manbij countryside leave 37 combatants and civilians dead|publisher=SOHR|date=9 January 2025|access-date=24 January 2025|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/121095/|title=SDF announces killing of 17 SNA militants in Syria’s Manbij|first=Abdulsalam|last=Khoja|date=18 January 2025|access-date=24 January 2025|website=North press agency|language=en-US}}{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/352723/|title=Military escalation {{!}} 11 combatants killed and wounded in clashes between Turkish-backed factions and SDF on frontlines of eastern Aleppo|publisher=SOHR|date=19 January 2025|access-date=24 January 2025|language=en-US}} Moreover, fighting continued to take place at both the Tishrin axis as well as the Qarah Qawzak bridge area.{{cite web |last1=Kishore |first1=Siddhant |last2=Ganzeveld |first2=Annika |last3=Wells |first3=Katherine |last4=Campa |first4=Kelly |last5=Carl |first5=Nicholas |date=20 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 20, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-20-2025|access-date=21 February 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}}{{Cite web|url=https://npasyria.com/en/121224/|title=SDF announces 22 SNA casualties near Tishrin Dam in Syria’s Manbij|first=Abdulsalam|last=Khoja|date=21 January 2025|access-date=24 January 2025|website=North press agency|language=en-US}} The Sultan Suleiman Shah Brigade was reportedly seen firing artillery towards SDF positions near Tishrin on 22 January.{{cite web |last1=Kishore |first1=Siddhant |last2=Moorman |first2=Carolyn |last3=Braverman |first3=Alexandra |last4=Reddy |first4=Ria |last5=Parry |first5=Andie |last6=Moore |first6=Johanna |last7=Rezaei |first7=Ben |last8=Wells |first8=Katherine |last9=Borens |first9=Avery |last10=Carter |first10=Brian |date=22 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 22, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-22-2025|access-date=24 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} Towards the end of January, battles took place around the villages of Abu Qalqal, Tel Arish, and Najm. The SDF launched drone attacks on SNA positions, destroying a radar system and military vehicles. Amid the clashes, a YPJ commander succumbed to injuries sustained in battles near Tishrin Dam.{{cite web |last1=Braverman |first1=Alexandra |last2=Moorman |first2=Carolyn |last3=Moorman |first3=Johanna |last4=Reddy |first4=Ria |last5=Rezaei |first5=Ben |last6=Carl |first6=Nicholas |date=25 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 25, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-25-2025|access-date=21 February 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}}{{Cite web|url=https://anfenglishmobile.com/human-rights/ypj-commander-arjin-fell-martyr-77612|last=|first=|date=25 January 2025|title=YPJ: Commander Arjîn falls a martyr|access-date=21 February 2025|website=ANF News}} Turkish aircraft conducted airstrikes on SDF positions near Dayr Hafir and the Qarah Qawzak bridge area.{{cite web |last1=Campa |first1=Kelly |last2=Kishore |first2=Siddhant |last3=Moorman |first3=Carolyn |last4=Reddy |first4=Ria |last5=Rezaei |first5=Ben |last6=Wells |first6=Katherine |last7=Moore |first7=Johanna |last8=Borens |first8=Avery |last9=Penza |first9=Victoria |last10=Carter |first10=Brian |date=30 January 2025 |title=Iran Update, January 30, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-january-30-2025|access-date=31 January 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}}

= Positional fighting and ceasefire =

Throughout February, movement along the frontlines largely stalled with continuous positional battles taking place at the directions of Qarah Qawzak, Tishrin, Dayr Hafir and Al-Khafsah. Both sides conducted artillery, mortar, and rocket bombardments.{{Cite web |date=17 February 2025 |title=Iran Update, February 17, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-17-2025 |access-date=5 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=20 February 2025 |title=Iran Update, February 20, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-20-2025 |access-date=5 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}}{{Cite web |last= |date=24 February 2025 |title=Ongoing escalation - Turkish-backed factions launch three attacks on SDF positions in eastern Aleppo - The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356658/ |access-date=5 March 2025 |website=Syrian Obseratory for Human Rights |language=en-CA}} Multiple Turkish airstrikes were conducted during the month, as they reached as far as Ain-Issa, Raqqa and Deir-Ez-Zor, while suicide drones of the Martyr Haroun Units and ATGM strikes by the YPJ, targeted SNA positions as well as Turkish military bases in the Manbij countryside.{{cite web |last1=Braverman |first1=Alexandra |last2=Moorman |first2=Carolyn |last3=Moore |first3=Johanna |last4=Rezaei |first4=Ben |last5=Carter |first5=Brian |date=1 February 2025 |title=Iran Update, February 1, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-1-2025|access-date=9 February 2025|work=Institute for the Study of War}} Fighting towards the end of the month shifted to the Qara Qozak frontline, as the SNA tried to isolate the SDF bridgehead.{{Cite web |date=25 February 2025 |title=Iran Update, February 25, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-25-2025 |access-date=5 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}} The SOHR estimated that 56 SNA, 25 SDF members and 3 TAF soldiers were killed in February.{{Cite web |last= |date=1 March 2025 |title=Turkish drone attacks - 22 people killed in SDF-controlled areas in February |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/356977/ |access-date=5 March 2025 |website=Syrian Observatory for Human Rights |language=en-CA}}

Mutual shelling continued into March, with no significant territorial changes.{{Cite web |date=3 March 2025 |title=Iran Update, March 3, 2025 |url=https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-march-3-2025 |access-date=8 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=6 March 2025 |title=Iran Update, March 6, 2025 |url=https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-march-6-2025 |access-date=8 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}}{{Cite web |last= |date=4 March 2025 |title=Amid displacement of civilians - SDF and Turkish forces trade fire in Aleppo countryside |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357137/ |access-date=8 March 2025 |website=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |language=en-CA}} On 5 March, pro-SNA media reported that the SDF was still in control of parts of the surrounding mountains and the village of Mahshiyet Al Sheikh, located 4.6 km (about 2.8 miles) west of the dam.{{Cite web |date=5 March 2025 |title=Iran Update, March 5, 2025 |url=https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-march-5-2025 |access-date=8 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}} SNA artillery from the Peace Spring area hit the M4 highway, Ain-Issa and Raqqa on multiple occasions, supported by the Turkish Air Force, which separately targeted positions on and behind the frontline, including Sarrin.{{Cite web |date=4 March 2025 |title=Iran Update, March 4, 2025 |url=https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-march-4-2025 |access-date=8 March 2025 |website=Institute for the Study of War |language=en}} Turkish military bases west of the Euphrates continued to come under SDF artillery and mortar fire.{{Cite web |last= |date=3 March 2025 |title=Amid Turkish bombardment on strategic positions in Aleppo countryside - SDF attack Turkish base in west Euphrates region |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/357098/ |access-date=8 March 2025 |website=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |language=en-CA}}

Towards the end of March the frontlines calmed down, amid reports of Kurdish news outlets, which suggested that a potential ceasefire agreement between the SDF and Turkey might be brokered by the International Coalition.{{Cite web |last=Mohammed |first=Daban |date=29 April 2025 |title=A Source Tells Channel8: SDF and Turkish Army in Talks for Ceasefire Under Global Coalition Supervision |url=https://channel8.com/english/35044 |access-date=1 April 2025 |website=Channel 8 |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=31 March 2024 |title=PYD confirms ‘serious efforts’ for Turkey-SDF ceasefire in northeast Syria |url=https://www.rudaw.net/notfound.html |access-date=1 April 2025 |website=www.rudaw.net}} This coincided with a prisoner/body exchange between the SDF and SNA consisting of 40 bodies and 25 detained fighters including four Turkish nationals and a much lower number of casualties for the month (30 SNA, 7 SDF and 1 TAF), as reported by the SOHR.{{Cite web |date=31 March 2025 |title=Exchange deal - “SDF” receives 40 bodies and prepares to hand over 25 detainees of “National Army” |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/359017/ |access-date=1 April 2025 |website=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights}}{{Cite web |date=1 April 2025 |title=Monthly death toll - 2,069 civilians among 2,644 people ki*lled in March 2025 |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/359032/ |access-date=1 April 2025 |website=The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights}}

= April =

On 19 April SOHR reported that a SDF commander was killed and another wounded by a TAF airstrike in Northern Al-Raqqah.{{cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/360267/|title= Violation of truce {{!}} Turkish drone targets military vehicle in northern Al-Raqqah|work=SOHR|date=19 April 2025}}

== Talks ==

= Syria–SDF =

In January 2025, talks started between the new HTS-led Syrian government and the SDF in Damascus. The focus of the negotiations was to settle the Kurdish forces into the new administration and to resolve the conflict with the SNA. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi has said that one of his central demands is a decentralised administration, in which he proposed to integrate the SDF with the new Defence Ministry, but as "a military bloc" without dissolving the group. This proposal was rejected by Syria's new defence minister Murhaf Abu Qasra stating that such a bloc "is not right."{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/syrian-defence-minister-rejects-kurdish-proposal-its-own-military-bloc-2025-01-19/|title=Syrian defence minister rejects Kurdish proposal for its own military bloc|first=Maya|last=Gebeily|date=19 January 2025|access-date=25 January 2025|website=Reuters|language=en-US}} Abu Qasra expressed his desire to finish the integration process by 1 March.{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/19/syria-defence-minister-rejects-kurdish-led-sdf-proposal-own-military-bloc|title=Syrian minister rejects Kurdish-led SDF’s proposal for own military bloc|first=|last=|date=19 January 2025|access-date=25 January 2025|website=Al Jazeera English|archive-date=|archive-url=|url-status=}} At the same time, he did not rule out the use of force should the negotiations fail.{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/middle-east/2025/01/22/syria-defense-minister-says-open-to-talks-with-sdf-but-ready-to-use-force-|title=Syria defense minister says open to talks with SDF, but ready to use ‘force’|first=|last=|date=19 January 2025|access-date=25 January 2025|website=Al Arabiya English|archive-date=|archive-url=|url-status=}}

{{multiple image

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| image1 = Ahmed al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi.jpg

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| alt1 = Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF leader Mazloum Abdi agree to integrate the SDF into the Syrian transitional government.

| alt2 = Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and SDF leader Mazloum Abdi agree to integrate the SDF into the Syrian transitional government.

| caption2 = Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) leader Mazloum Abdi signing the agreement to integrate the SDF into the Syrian state.

}}

On 29 January, HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa was appointed as the interim Syrian president. The spokesperson of Syria's military operations, Hassan Abdel Ghani, announced on state media the dissolution of all armed factions in the country, which includes the SNA and al-Sharaa's own HTS.{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/29/syrias-ahmed-al-sharaa-named-president-for-transitional-period|title=Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa named president for transitional period|first=|last=|date=29 January 2025|access-date=7 February 2025|website=Al Jazeera English|archive-date=|archive-url=|url-status=}} In his first interview as president, al-Sharaa told reporters of The Economist that he opposes a federal system in Syria. Moreover, al-Sharaa said that Turkey was planning to launch a full-fledged operation in the north against the Kurdish forces, but he asked them to wait in order to give space for negotiations to reach an agreement with the SDF.{{Cite web|url=https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2025/02/03/an-interview-with-ahmed-al-sharaa-syrias-president|title=An interview with Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s president|first=|last=|date=3 February 2025|url-access=subscription|access-date=9 February 2025|website=The Economist|language=en-US}}

An agreement was reached by Syria with the SDF on 10 March.{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/syria-reaches-deal-integrate-sdf-within-state-institutions-presidency-says-2025-03-10/|title=Syria's interim president signs deal with Kurdish-led SDF to merge forces|first1=Jaidaa|last1=Ahmad|first2=Menna|last2=AlaaElDin|date=10 March 2025|access-date=11 March 2025|website=Reuters|language=en-US}} Al-Sharaa and Abdi signed a document in Damascus to integrate the SDF into Syria's state institutions.{{cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/10/syria-merges-kurdish-led-syrian-democratic-forces-into-state-institutions|title=Syria merges Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into state institutions|first=|last=|date=10 March 2025|access-date=11 March 2025|website=Al Jazeera English}} This will place all public institutions in the northeast under the administration of the Syrian state, including border crossings, airports and oilfields. The deal also includes the recognition of Kurdish rights and speaks of the participation of all Syrians in the country's new political process.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/10/syrian-government-reaches-deal-with-kurdish-led-sdf-to-integrate-north-east-region|title=Syrian government reaches deal with Kurdish-led SDF to integrate north-east region|first=William|last=Christou|date=10 March 2025|access-date=11 March 2025|website=The Guardian|language=en-US}} Full implementation of the agreement is expected by the end of the year.{{Cite web|url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250310-%F0%9F%94%B4-syria-s-government-signs-deal-with-kurdish-led-authorities-in-the-northeast|title=Syria's government signs deal with Kurdish-led authorities in the northeast|first=|last=|date=10 March 2025|access-date=11 March 2025|website=France24|language=en-US}}

= Turkey–United States =

Parallel talks are taking place between officials of NATO allies Turkey and the United States. Turkey has had ties with HTS, supporting the group in their fight against the Syrian Arab Republic, while the SDF has been a close ally of the United States during their fight against ISIL. The biggest concern on both sides is that failure to reach an agreement will prolong the 13-year civil war.{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/negotiators-zero-potential-deal-disarm-syrias-last-battleground-2025-01-19/|title=Negotiators zero in on potential deal to disarm Syria's last battleground|first1=Jonathan |last1=Spicer |first2=Tuvan |last2=Gumrukcu|first3=Maya |last3=Gebeily |date=19 January 2025|access-date=25 January 2025|website=Reuters|language=en-US}} UN Envoy Geir Pedersen stated that he hoped the warring parties would take their time for a diplomatic solution "so that this does not end in a full military confrontation". He also said that Ankara and Washington have a key role in supporting this effort.{{Cite web|url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250122-syria-minister-says-open-to-talks-with-kurds-but-ready-to-use-force|title=‘Door to negotiation’ with Kurdish-led SDF open, says Syrian minister|first=|last=|date=22 January 2025|access-date=26 January 2025|website=France24|language=en-US}}

Newly appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed U.S. support to the Kurdish forces in Syria during his confirmation hearing.{{Cite web|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/syrian-kurds-look-for-continued-us-support-under-trump/7945249.html|title=Syrian Kurds look for continued US support under Trump|first=Sirwan|last=Kajjo|date=21 January 2025|access-date=26 January 2025|website=Voice of America|language=en}} Shortly after assuming office, Rubio held his first call with Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, in which he “highlighted the need for an inclusive transition in Syria”.{{cite web|url=https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2025/01/rubio-and-fidan-hold-first-call-turkeys-role-expands-syria|title=Rubio and Fidan hold first call as Turkey's role expands in Syria|first=Ezgi|last=Akin|date=22 January 2025|access-date=26 January 2025|website=Al-Monitor|archive-date=|archive-url=|url-status=}}{{cite web|url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/united-states/2025/01/22/rubio-speaks-to-turkey-fm-in-one-of-his-first-calls-as-top-us-diplomat|title=US Secretary of State Rubio backs ‘inclusive’ transition in Syria in call with Turkey FM|first=|last=|date=24 January 2025|access-date=26 January 2025|website=Al Arabiya English|archive-date=|archive-url=|url-status=}} Fidan in return emphasised during a meeting with the Iraqi Foreign Minister, Fuad Hussein, his call for the Kurdish YPG to disband from northeastern Syria. Turkey views the YPG as an extension of the PKK, which is widely regarded as a terrorist organization.{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/turkey-says-joint-fight-needed-against-kurdish-militants-islamic-state-region-2025-01-26/|title=Turkey says joint fight needed against Kurdish militants, Islamic State in the region|first=Tuvan|last=Gumrukcu|date=26 January 2025|access-date=31 January 2025|website=Reuters|language=en-US}}

Civilian casualties and war crimes

= Tishrin Dam protests =

On 8 January, residents from Al-Hasakah city headed towards the Tishrin Dam to participate in a sit-in protest in support of the SDF and against Turkish attacks in the region.{{cite web |last1=Martany |first1=Stella |last2=Abdo |first2=Hogir |date=9 January 2025 |title=Conflict between Turkey and Kurdish groups rises around key dam in northern Syria |url=https://apnews.com/article/syria-turkey-kurds-sdf-tishrin-dam-71f958b405bed575dc20942b8393e89b |access-date=24 January 2025 |website=AP News}}{{cite web |date=8 January 2025 |title=Supporting SDF and expressing condemnation of Turkish attacks {{!}} Convoy of residents head from Al-Hasakah to Teshreen dam to participate in sit-in protest |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/353265/ |access-date=24 January 2025 |publisher=SOHR |language=en-US}} The civilian convoy was attacked by a drone coming from SNA controlled areas, killing 5 civilians and injuring 15 others.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=8 January 2025 |title=Drone attack kills several on their way to protest in northern Syria |url=https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria1/08012025 |access-date=24 January 2025 |website=Rudaw}}{{Cite web |last=Nelson |first=Mateo |date=10 January 2025 |title=‘To send a message’: What happened to the Tishreen Dam protest convoy? |url=https://syriadirect.org/what-happened-to-the-tishreen-dam-protest-convoy/ |access-date=16 February 2025 |website=Syria Direct |language=en-US}}

Protests at the Tishrin Dam have continued on a daily basis since then, and protestors have come under frequent bombardment by Turkish and SNA forces.{{Cite news |date=14 February 2025 |title=For 38th consecutive day, protest at Tishrin Dam continues |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/for-38th-consecutive-day-protest-at-tishrin-dam-continues |work=Hawar News Agency}} The attacks have killed 24 civilians and injured over 200 others.{{Cite web |title=Protests and bloodshed at Tishreen Dam, the Syrian war’s last faultline |url=https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/protests-bloodshed-tishreen-dam-syria-war-last-faultline |access-date=16 February 2025 |website=Middle East Eye |language=en}} The strikes have destroyed 4 ambulances, killed 3 paramedics, injured 8 journalists and a German peace activist.{{Cite web |last=Gol |first=Jiyar |date=26 February 2025 |title='We are still at war': Syria's Kurds battle Turkey months after Assad's fall |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g0w0x28yxo |access-date=5 March 2025 |website=BBC |language=en-GB}}{{Cite news |date=8 February 2025 |title=Tishrin Dam: Stronghold of popular resistance against Turkish aggression |url=https://hawarnews.com/en/tishrin-dam-stronghold-of-popular-resistance-against-turkish-aggression |work=Hawar News Agency}} These attacks raised broad demonstrations across AANES controlled areas in northeastern Syria condemning the attacks against civilians.{{cite web |date=22 January 2025 |title=“Martyrs of Teshreen dam never die” {{!}} Residents stage demonstrations in different areas in N and E Syria denouncing escalating Turkish attacks |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354270/ |access-date=24 January 2025 |publisher=SOHR |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Ali |first=Nalin |date=22 January 2025 |title=Residents of Syria’s Qamishli protest Turkish attacks, support SDF |url=https://npasyria.com/en/121303/ |access-date=24 January 2025 |website=North press agency |language=en-US}}

An airstrike on 18 January led to the death of Kurdish comedian Bavê Teyar.{{Cite web |date=19 January 2025 |title=Renowned Kurdish comedian dies after Tishreen Dam airstrike |url=https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/190120251 |access-date=28 January 2025 |website=Rudaw}} A week later, on 26 January, Turkish drones continued to harass the civilian rally, leaving two civilians dead and 10 injured.{{Cite web |date=25 January 2025 |title=Renewed shelling {{!}} 12 civilians kil*led and injured by Turkish drone near Teshrin Dam - The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354447/ |access-date=27 January 2025 |language=en-CA}} Hiba Zayadin, Senior Middle East and North Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch, stated that the SNA and Turkey "appear to be celebrating" these attacks on unarmed civilians.{{Cite web |date=30 January 2025 |title=Northeast Syria: Apparent War Crime by Türkiye-Backed Forces |url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/01/30/northeast-syria-apparent-war-crime-turkiye-backed-forces |access-date=30 January 2025 |website=Human Rights Watch |language=en}}

= Other areas =

On 28 January, a Turkish airstrike hit a public market in the town of Sarrin, resulting in the deaths of 13 civilians and injuries to 20 others, including women and four children.{{Cite web |last= |date=29 January 2025 |title=Killing 13 civilians, including four children, and injuring 20 others - Turkish drones commit horrific massacre in Aleppo countryside |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354665/ |access-date=29 January 2025 |website=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |language=}}{{Cite web |last= |date=28 January 2025 |title=Dea*th toll update - Nearly 30 people kil*led and injured under Turkish shelling on public market in Aleppo |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/354639/ |access-date=29 January 2025 |website=The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |language=}}

Human Rights Watch has called out various atrocities committed by the SNA and Turkey, including the targeting of an ambulance carrying injured civilians, which it described as a "war crime" stating that “striking an ambulance carrying wounded civilians on an open road is unlikely to be an accident.” On 29 January, a Turkish air strike resulted in the deaths of three civilians and seven injuries in Kobani (Ayn Al Arab).{{Cite web |date=30 January 2025 |title=Northeast Syria: Apparent War Crime by Türkiye-Backed Forces {{!}} Human Rights Watch |url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/01/30/northeast-syria-apparent-war-crime-turkiye-backed-forces |access-date=31 January 2025 |language=en}}

On 3 February a car bomb was detonated in the city of Manbij, killing at least 20 people, most of them women who were agricultural workers.{{cite web |last=Gritten |first=David |date=3 February 2025 |title=Car bomb blast in northern Syria kills at least 20 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr465233v6wo |url-status= |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=9 February 2025 |website=BBC News}} Both parties blamed each other for conducting the attack.{{cite web |last1=Ganzeveld |first1=Annika |last2=Campa |first2=Kelly |last3=Parry |first3=Andie |last4=Wells |first4=Katherine |last5=Braverman |first5=Alexandra |last6=Kishore |first6=Siddhant |last7=Carl |first7=Nicholas |date=3 February 2025 |title=Iran Update, February 3, 2025 |url=https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-3-2025 |access-date=9 February 2025 |work=Institute for the Study of War}} Shortly after, Syria's presidency made a statement in which they vowed to punish those who are responsible.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=3 February 2025 |title=Syria vows 'punishment' after car bomb kills 20 |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250203-syria-vows-punishment-after-car-bomb-kills-20 |access-date=21 February 2025 |website=France24 |language=en-US}} On 15 February, a journalist was killed in a Turkish airstrike near Tishrin Dam.{{cite web |date=15 February 2025 |title=Turkish aerial strike {{!}} Journalist killed under attack on vicinity of Teshrin Dam in Aleppo |url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/355991/ |work=SOHR}}