Syrian Army Repels Kurdish-Led Force Near Aleppo, Captures Fighters

Syrian government forces have stopped an advance by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near Aleppo. The clash happened in the countryside of Afrin, a northern region. Official Syrian media reported the incident. They stated that several SDF members were killed during the fighting. The reports also said that a number of SDF fighters surrendered to the Syrian army. The SDF is a Kurdish-led militia alliance. It controls large parts of northeastern Syria. This confrontation near Aleppo highlights ongoing tensions in the area, despite a focus on other conflict zones. The Syrian army claims it successfully defended the area. The SDF has not yet commented on the reported battle or the captives.