Human Rights Groups Warn of Civilian Risks Amid Northeast Syria Clashes

Human Rights Groups Warn of Civilian Risks Amid Northeast Syria Clashes
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Human rights groups have raised urgent concerns over the safety of civilians following renewed clashes between Syrian government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northeastern Syria.

The escalation, which began on January 6 in Aleppo’s predominantly Kurdish neighborhoods and expanded to Raqqa, Deir Ezzor, and al-Hasakah governorates, has resulted in mass displacement, civilian casualties, and widespread humanitarian challenges.

Human Rights Watch emphasized that both sides have obstructed humanitarian aid, cut electricity and water, and carried out arbitrary arrests. Reports indicate that over 6,000 people have reached displacement sites, with 7,000 more in transit, many lacking shelter, food, and fuel. Residents described attacks on humanitarian corridors, leaving civilians vulnerable to sniper fire and shelling.

Authorities also seized control of the al-Hol and Roj camps, where relatives of ISIS members remain detained in life-threatening conditions. Aid delivery to al-Hol has been blocked, while escapes and security crackdowns have left detainees at risk. Videos have surfaced alleging extrajudicial killings and desecration of bodies, though verification remains pending.

Adam Coogle, deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch, stressed that “taking or holding territory militarily shouldn’t come at the expense of civilian rights,” urging all parties to ensure safe passage, access to aid, and humane treatment for detainees, including ISIS suspects and family members. He warned that unresolved protection gaps continue to fuel instability in Syria.