The Syrian Arab Army reported that SDF forces targeted SAA positions around Ayn al-Arab with more than 25 FPV-type suicide drones over the 59-minute period ending at 8:45 PM UTC on January 25, 2026, destroying four army vehicles, according to a military statement shared by BarracudaVol1 on X. The SDF also struck the M4 highway and surrounding villages, injuring many civilians. The army statement detailed SDF forces surrounding families in Şeyhler village to arrest young men, sparking clashes that injured residents. The SAA stated it is reviewing field options and will take necessary measures against attacks on civilians and deployments. This escalation follows a child killed in shelling on nearby Qasimiyah village earlier that evening, as previously reported by Al-Sharqiya Official Reporter. Fighters from Shuyoukh crossed the Euphrates River toward Al-Shuyoukh axes to fight SDF forces during the period, according to Wolveri07681751 on X. Fierce battles raged on all axes around Ain al-Arab city, with targeting of SDF positions described as a response to the Qasimiyah incident. Syria's Defense Minister announced preparations to recruit residents from former SDF-held areas into army ranks following successful security force campaigns, as stated by QalaatAlMudiq on X citing recruitment centers in Deir Ezzor under heavy demand.
