SDF Confirms Clashes with “Damascus Militants” in Al-Mansoura

2026-01-18 11:06:28

Damascus -- The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Sunday that their units are engaged in armed clashes with what they described as “Damascus-backed militants” in the town of Al-Mansoura, located in the Raqqa countryside.

According to an official SDF statement, the confrontations erupted after militants attempted to advance into areas under SDF control. The group reported that fighting has intensified along the outskirts of Al-Mansoura, with exchanges of gunfire continuing into the afternoon.

Local sources indicated that residents have been caught in the crossfire, prompting concerns over civilian safety. The SDF stressed that its operations are aimed at repelling the attackers and securing the town, while accusing Damascus-linked groups of destabilizing the region.

The clashes highlight ongoing tensions between the SDF and forces aligned with the Syrian government, underscoring the fragile security situation in northern Syria. No immediate reports of casualties were available at the time of publication.