STG forces launch ground offensive in Al-Ashrafiya and Sheikh Masoud

STG Forces Launch Ground Offensive in Northern Aleppo Against SDF

On Thursday, January 8, 2026, Syrian government forces, known as the Syrian Arab Army (STG), initiated a full-scale ground offensive targeting the Kurdish-majority neighborhoods of Al-Ashrafiya and Sheikh Masoud in northern Aleppo. This military operation is taking place under heavy artillery cover and has resulted in significant clashes between STG forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who control these areas.

Key Details

The current epicenters of the fighting are located in the Resafa District and the Syriac Quarter of Aleppo. Reports indicate that STG forces have attempted to launch an assault on the Syriac Quarter from at least two different directions. This offensive was preceded by a barrage of mortar shelling aimed at the area, which is known for its significant Christian population.

During the initial stages of the attack, one of the STG"s assaults was successfully repelled by the SDF, resulting in casualties for the government forces. The SDF has been a key player in the region, primarily composed of Kurdish fighters who have been engaged in a long-standing conflict with various factions, including the Syrian government.

In addition to the fighting in the Syriac Quarter, STG forces are also making advances towards the center of the Resafa District. Heavy fighting is reported to be ongoing in this area, indicating a significant escalation in hostilities.

In light of the escalating violence, local authorities have issued additional evacuation orders for three more areas, raising the total number of evacuation orders to eight. This development underscores the urgent need for civilians to seek safety as the conflict intensifies.

Background

The conflict in Syria has been ongoing since 2011, resulting in a complex and multifaceted civil war involving various factions and international interests. The Syrian Democratic Forces, primarily composed of Kurdish fighters, have played a crucial role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS) and have established control over significant territories in northern Syria, including parts of Aleppo. The STG, backed by Russia and Iran, has been attempting to regain control over these areas, leading to frequent clashes with the SDF.

The neighborhoods of Al-Ashrafiya and Sheikh Masoud are particularly significant due to their demographic composition, with a majority Kurdish population and a notable presence of Christian communities. The ongoing conflict poses a threat to the stability and safety of these communities, which have already faced numerous challenges during the Syrian civil war.

What"s Next

The situation in northern Aleppo remains fluid, with ongoing military operations likely to continue as both the STG and SDF seek to assert control over contested territories. The issuance of evacuation orders highlights the immediate humanitarian concerns for civilians caught in the crossfire. As the conflict escalates, the potential for increased casualties and displacement grows, raising alarms among humanitarian organizations and local authorities.

For further context on related regional developments, readers can refer to recent developments in Iran, where anti-regime protests have been ongoing, reflecting a broader pattern of unrest in the region.

As the situation evolves, it is crucial to monitor the developments closely, as they may have significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Syria and the stability of the region as a whole.