Human rights watchdog: 22 civilians killed by SDF in Raqqa in one day

Damascus (SANA) The Syrian Network for Human Rights has reported that at least 22 civilians were killed, and several others injured, in Raqqa province on January 18, 2026, most of them by sniper fire from SDF militants.

According to the network, the violence erupted during a popular uprising in several villages, towns, and neighborhoods of Raqqa city. Residents seized multiple areas, prompting the SDF militants to withdraw from some locations. The group then demolished key bridges at the city’s entrances.

The network said snipers affiliated with the SDF targeted civilians directly, causing deaths and injuries during the partial withdrawal of SDF forces.

“The deliberate targeting of civilians constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law,” the Syrian Network for Human Rights said in a statement. It called on all parties to protect civilians and prevent the recurrence of such incidents.

The report also highlighted that attacks on populated civilian areas, including ground shelling and drone strikes, could constitute indiscriminate or disproportionate use of force, which is prohibited under international law. Additionally, the destruction of bridges and obstruction of civilian movement without military justification is a violation of residents’ rights and essential infrastructure.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights urged national and international authorities to conduct independent investigations into the killings and hold those responsible accountable under international law.

Since January 17, Syrian government forces have gradually regained control over villages and towns in Raqqa, following operations against the SDF and affiliated PKK terrorists. Prior to their withdrawal, the SDF detonated al-Rashid and al-Mansour bridges critical crossings over the Euphrates River disrupting transport and daily life in the city.

Ministry of Interior units entered Raqqa on January 18 as part of a broader plan to restore security and stability, safeguard citizens, and implement the full integration of SDF into Syrian state institutions, in accordance with a ceasefire agreement signed by President Ahmad al-Sharaa.