Clashes between Syrian Kurds and pro-Turkish rebels continue in northern Syria

Violent clashes between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish-backed Syrian rebels have continued for more than three weeks in northern Syria, with “dozens” of insurgents “eliminated,” the armed alliance said Saturday.

“Violent clashes between our forces and the mercenaries of the Turkish occupation continue in the south and east of the city of Manbech. Dozens of mercenaries were eliminated and many of their military vehicles were destroyed,” the Manbech Military Council, part of the FSD, said in a brief statement.

He said the rebels have not managed to "make progress despite the support of the Turkish occupation with drones and heavy artillery."

Yesterday, the SDF said at least 72 pro-Turkish rebels had been killed in two days of fierce fighting, although the insurgents have not responded to the report.

Syrian Kurds are currently fighting Ankara-backed Syrian rebels in an offensive in the northeast of the country, despite a ceasefire brokered by the United States, the main supporter of the SDF, in the town of Manbech.

Ankara considers the People's Protection Units (YPG) an extension of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which it has been fighting for four decades.

Syria's new strongman, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has said he is negotiating with the SDF "to resolve the crisis in northeastern Syria," although he has expressed his opposition to a possible autonomy for that region.

The Syrian Kurds control much of northern and northeastern Syria, from where they have established their own administration.EFE