Syrian media report SDF attack on Aleppo University residences

The Syrian Democratic Forces shelled student dormitories at Aleppo University on Thursday, as fighting in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo entered its third day, according to Syrian state media.

The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) and state television said artillery shells hit the university’s student housing complex. Authorities evacuated students from the dormitories following the attack, SANA reported.

Syria’s Ministry of Emergency Situations and Disaster Management said the shelling constituted a violation of international humanitarian law, which protects educational facilities during hostilities.

State television quoted Aleppo University president Muhammad Osama Raadoun as saying the dormitory houses students from all Syrian provinces. He said the shelling caused material damage but did not report casualties.

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Earlier on Thursday, Aleppo health officials said the civilian death toll from shelling attributed to the SDF since Tuesday had risen to eight, with 52 people wounded, according to Aleppo Health media director Munir al-Muhammad.

State media said the recent attacks have affected residential neighbourhoods as well as educational, health and service facilities. Meanwhile, the Syrian Army launched intensified shelling of SDF positions in the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh districts, which the army says are being used as military sites and firing points.

Both sides have traded accusations as clashes continue, amid warnings of further escalation in the city.

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