Syrians Celebrate Return Home to Deyr Hafir Despite Harsh Winter Following YPG Withdrawal

Families loaded their belongings onto tractors and trucks, carrying modest possessions and high hopes for a new life as they made their way back to areas recently cleared of YPG forces.

Joy Amidst Hardship Anadolu Agency teams accompanied several families on their journey home. Among them was the Akle family, who struggled to move their belongings in the pouring rain. Majid Akle, 28, expressed his relief while settling back in with his wife and neighbors. “We returned to Deyr Hafir today after a 10-day break. Thank God, we are fine,” Akle said, overcome with emotion.

His wife recalled the difficult days prior to their return, noting that mortar shells fired shortly before the terrorist organization’s withdrawal had killed innocent neighbors. Returning civilians highlighted the extent of the violations they endured, accusing the YPG of using them as human shields to serve foreign agendas and undermining state sovereignty.

“We Are Finally Free” In scenes mixing tears and laughter, neighbors mobilized to help one another. Ibrahim Muhammed, 45, holding his young daughter, described the moment: “We are from the village of Deyr al-Sus in Deyr Hafir. It is hard to describe what I feel today. We are finally free.”

Imad al-Shaban, 38, noted the warm reception by the military, stating, “Everyone is slowly returning home. The soldiers told us, ‘Welcome to your homes’.”

End of a Nightmare The return marks the end of a period defined by “fear and uncertainty,” with families reporting that the threat of drone attacks and terror is finally over. The Syrian Army confirmed full military control over the eastern Aleppo countryside, including Deyr Hafir and Meskene, following the YPG’s withdrawal east of the Euphrates on the evening of January 16.

This withdrawal came after the Syrian Army targeted YPG positions used for “suicide” drone attacks against civilians. The operation follows reports that the YPG had failed to implement the agreement signed on March 10, 2025, which mandated the integration of institutions into state administration and the withdrawal of forces to the east of the Euphrates. The government continues its efforts to restore security across the country following the political transition that began on December 8, 2024.