Aleppo residents return after 'partial ceasefire'

Residents began returning to the Sheikh Maqsoud area of Aleppo after days of clashes between government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces; first responders entered to clear rubble and disarm mines.

Residents began returning to the Sheikh Maqsoud neighbourhood in Aleppo on Sunday after days of clashes between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. The fighting followed talks that did not resolve how to integrate SDF fighters into the national army. First responders entered to tend to residents, clear rubble and disarm improvised mines. Officials described the situation as a "partial ceasefire" and said some fighters withdrew from parts of the area. Known details: - Clashes began on Tuesday in predominantly Kurdish neighbourhoods including Sheikh Maqsoud, Achrafieh and Bani Zaid. - Security forces have taken control of Achrafieh and Bani Zaid, according to reports. - At least 23 people were reported killed and more than 140,000 displaced during five days of fighting. - Syrian Civil Defence and Syrian Red Crescent teams have been working to clear rubble and disarm improvised mines before residents are allowed to return. - The SDF said it would continue to fight after evacuations and described the pause as a "partial ceasefire," while government officials accused the SDF of using some civilian sites for military purposes. Summary: The return of some residents and the work of first responders indicate a partial easing of active hostilities while recovery and safety checks continue. Undetermined at this time.