SULAIMANI, Kurdistan Region – Fierce fighting between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish-backed groups erupted early Friday in southeastern Manbij, Aleppo province, particularly near Teshreen Dam. The clashes, which remain ongoing, have resulted in the deaths of 28 Turkish-backed fighters within 24 hours, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
Heavy artillery fire reportedly struck the villages of Haj Hussein, Al-Saidiyeen, Atshanah, Alloush, and Al-Mastaha, with Turkish forces deploying four reconnaissance drones in the assault that extended from Thursday morning into the night.
The escalation follows an SDF blockade preventing Turkish forces from establishing a military base near the strategic Qara Qwzaq Bridge, intensifying hostilities along multiple frontlines.
Over the past 23 days, SOHR reports that 208 people—combatants and civilians—have been killed in the Manbij region due to clashes, bombardments, and drone strikes. Among the casualties are 25 civilians, including five women and two children, alongside 142 Turkish-backed fighters and 41 SDF members.
