Syrian Forces Accuse US-Backed Militia of Trapping Civilians

Security forces in Aleppo, Syria, have intensified operations to evacuate civilians from two neighborhoods. They accuse a US-backed militia of holding people there against their will. The Internal Security Forces (ISF) announced the effort on Wednesday. They are focusing on the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh areas of the city. In a statement, Syria's Interior Ministry said the action is a direct response to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The ministry claims the SDF is restricting civilian movement and enforcing a blockade. The SDF is a Kurdish-led militia alliance. It receives support from the United States and controls large parts of northeastern Syria. The group has not yet publicly responded to these latest allegations. The ISF says its goal is to protect civilians and ensure they can leave the areas safely.