Syrian Army, Kurdish Forces Exchange Fire East of Aleppo; Military Zone Declared

Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) exchanged fire east of Aleppo on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, following recent deadly clashes in the city. The Syrian Army declared an area east of Aleppo a "closed military zone," citing SDF mobilization and alleged drone attacks. The SDF stated government forces shelled a district and launched drones. Both sides reported no immediate casualties, though previous clashes displaced thousands. Tensions persist amid stalled negotiations over integrating SDF fighters into the national army.