SDC calls on transitional govt. to adhere to signed agreements 

In a statement issued today regarding the shelling of the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods in Aleppo, the SDC said: “Out of national responsibility, and at a critical moment that requires the highest levels of wisdom and self-restraint, the Syrian Democratic Council is following with grave concern the actions carried out by forces affiliated with the transitional government, which shelled the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods in the city of Aleppo with heavy weapons. This resulted in the injury of seventeen civilians and the martyrdom of a woman, constituting a serious violation that threatens the lives of residents and the safety of their property. While placing the protection of civilians at the forefront of its priorities, the Council condemns these attacks as unacceptable conduct that contradicts the requirements of stability and civil peace.”

The Council affirmed that what occurred represents a clear breach of existing understandings, foremost among them the April 1 agreement concerning the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods, which was concluded with the aim of neutralizing civilians, preventing escalation, and addressing issues through disciplined and mutually agreed mechanisms. It stated: “Any violation of these understandings not only endangers the security of the concerned neighborhoods, but also negatively impacts all efforts aimed at consolidating calm and preventing the expansion of tensions.”

The SDC stressed the necessity of full and serious commitment to implementing the March 10 agreement signed between the transitional government and the Syrian Democratic Forces, considering it a national framework intended to regulate relations between the parties, reduce tensions, and open a balanced political and military track that serves the public interest of Syrians. It added: “Respecting this agreement is a fundamental step toward building trust and preventing the resort to force in addressing disputes.”

In this context, the Council underscored the importance of addressing national internal issues and files through an independent Syrian will, away from any external agendas or calculations that do not serve the country’s unity or the aspirations of its people. It affirmed: “Dragging external factors into Syrian internal affairs only leads to further complication of crises and prolongs them, whereas responsible national dialogue and adherence to existing agreements remain the most effective means of resolving differences.”

The Council renewed its commitment to the priority of a comprehensive political solution, the unity of Syrian geography, and its firm rejection of chaos and violence. It also reiterated its vision regarding the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces, in accordance with the March 10 agreement, within the process of building a unified national army based on an inclusive national doctrine, free from exclusion or retaliation, and ensuring the protection of all Syrians on an equal basis.

The Syrian Democratic Council called on all parties, foremost among them the Transitional Government, to adhere to the signed agreements, prioritize Syria’s supreme national interest, work jointly to protect civilians, consolidate de-escalation, and support a national political process that places Syria on the path to stability and the reconstruction of the state on just and inclusive foundations.

The Council extended its deepest condolences to the families of the martyrs, praying for mercy for the fallen and a speedy recovery for the wounded.

A-H

ANHA