Tensions Escalate Near Turkish Border: Clashes Erupt Between Turkey-Backed and Tribal Militias in Syria’s Siluk

Violent clashes have erupted in Siluk, a strategic town near the Turkish border in northern Syria, between Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SMO) forces and armed tribal militias, as tensions rise over Damascus’ latest disarmament ultimatum.

The fighting, centered near the Akçakale district of Şanlıurfa and across the border in Syria’s Raqqa province, has reportedly led to multiple casualties on both sides. The conflict flared up just as the 10-day deadline given by Syria’s new central authority for all armed groups to surrender their weapons expired.

SMO Clashes With Arab Tribal Militias

According to local reports, the clashes initially broke out between SMO factions and fighters from the Arab al-Naim tribe, who control parts of Siluk, located in the Tal Abyad region. The cause of the confrontation remains unclear, but the violence has escalated rapidly, with tribal forces reportedly storming and torching SMO military outposts.

The number of dead and wounded continues to climb as the conflict spreads. Eyewitnesses and opposition sources claim that tribal forces have seized large parts of Siluk, marking a significant shift in control in the area.

Damascus Deploys Troops Amid Regional Escalation

In response, the Syrian Ministry of Defense announced it had deployed forces into Siluk late last night “to calm the situation and prevent further bloodshed.” These units reportedly arrived with heavy weapons and are now present inside the town.

Simultaneously, Damascus-aligned forces have reportedly engaged with SMO-affiliated groups near the Aleppo International Airport, raising fears of a broader escalation involving state troops and opposition factions. Although unconfirmed, such developments suggest that the clashes may expand beyond tribal tensions and into a larger confrontation.

Border Area at Risk of Wider Instability

Siluk and the surrounding region, including Tel Abyad, remain under the control of Turkish-backed SMO units, part of the broader Turkish security buffer zone established after cross-border operations. However, tensions with local tribes have been simmering for months.

The recent outbreak of violence may also complicate ongoing negotiations regarding the future of opposition-controlled areas such as Raqqa, Azaz, and Afrin, which are still under SMO authority. Talks between opposition leaders and Damascus continue, with the possibility of these territories being handed over to the central Syrian government under discussion.

This latest surge in violence highlights the fragile and fragmented nature of power in northern Syria, where Turkish influence, local tribal dynamics, and Damascus’ centralizing ambitions collide — often violently.

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