Clashes in Aleppo highlight deep divisions in Syria, with ongoing political impasse between the Syrian government seeking centralization and the SDF advocating decentralization, amid stalled negotiations and regional tensions involving Turkey and the US.
Clashes in Aleppo between Syrian government forces and the SDF resulted in at least two civilian deaths, with both sides blaming each other. The violence occurred shortly after Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan's visit to Damascus, where he urged the SDF to integrate its weapons into the Syrian army, amid Turkey's threats of military action against the SDF. Both sides have ordered a ceasefire, but tensions remain high.
Clashes between the Syrian army and Kurdish-led SDF in Aleppo have resulted in casualties amid ongoing talks to integrate the SDF into Syrian state institutions, with both sides accusing each other of initiating violence, as international and regional actors call for de-escalation and dialogue.
Turkey has signed a memorandum of understanding with Syria to provide weapons, logistical support, and training for the Syrian army, amid ongoing tensions over the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the Syrian government, with Turkey expressing impatience over the lack of implementation of previous agreements and warning of potential military action.
Turkey has issued a stern warning to Syrian Kurdish groups, particularly the SDF, urging them to cease cooperation with Israel and to adhere to their agreement with Damascus, amid ongoing tensions and negotiations involving security, autonomy, and potential military action. The situation is complicated by regional alliances, recent clashes, and diplomatic efforts between Turkey, Syria, and the US.
NYU researchers found that two non-invasive topical treatments, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and atraumatic restorative treatment (ART), can halt the progression of childhood cavities for up to four years, supporting simple, school-based, preventive dental care.
The article argues that the U.S. must continue supporting its Kurdish partners, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), in Syria to prevent regional instability and counter hostile actors like ISIS. It highlights the threat posed by Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) rebels and the need for U.S. mediation between the SDF and Turkey. The authors emphasize the strategic importance of maintaining a U.S. presence in the region to safeguard gains against ISIS and influence Syria's future, while also addressing Turkey's security concerns.
The US is intensifying efforts to prevent an ISIS resurgence in Syria following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, as its key partner, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), faces attacks from Turkish-backed militants. This has forced the SDF to halt anti-ISIS operations and relocate detainees from threatened facilities. The complex situation has prompted US officials to engage with Turkey to de-escalate tensions, while maintaining a military presence in Syria to counter ISIS threats.
As Syria's regime collapses, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sees an opportunity to strengthen Turkey's position against the Kurdish minority in Syria. Erdogan has long sought to persuade the U.S. to sever ties with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led militia, and allow Turkey to manage security in Syria's northeast. With the regime's collapse, Erdogan may push for this agenda with incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, potentially presenting him with a fait accompli.
The U.S.-led coalition in eastern Syria reportedly thwarted six drone attacks targeting their base at the Conoco oil field, with no information provided on casualties. The coalition and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been facing increased attacks by Iran-backed groups, prompting calls for additional air defense systems to protect their bases.
Arab tribesmen briefly took control of two villages in northwest Syria in solidarity with tribesmen fighting the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast. The tribesmen later withdrew after heavy shelling and Russian air attacks. Tensions between the tribesmen and the SDF escalated into violence after the arrest of a local Arab armed group leader affiliated with the SDF. The fighting has resulted in dozens of deaths. The US has called for an end to the violence and urged all parties to de-escalate and resolve the situation peacefully.
A Ground Self-Defense Force helicopter with 10 personnel aboard went missing near Okinawa Prefecture's Miyako Island during surveillance activities. Parts of the helicopter were found in the sea during search efforts. The cause of the accident is unknown, and rescue efforts are ongoing for the missing pilots, mechanics, and other members of the Self-Defense Forces.