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Withdrawal of “Division 62” Forces from Sheikh al-Hadid and Evacuation of Military Headquarters in Afrin
Most members of “Division 62,” which includes fighters formerly affiliated with the “al-Amshat” faction, withdrew yesterday, Monday, from the center of Sheikh al-Hadid (Shieh) subdistrict in the Afrin countryside. The withdrawal coincided with the evacuation of several sites and buildings that had been used as military headquarters since 2018.
Local sources said that a military convoy affiliated with the division left the subdistrict center. Several public and private buildings that had been used as headquarters and military posts were also evacuated, including the agricultural extension unit, an olive press, the old post office, and several homes that factions had seized in the subdistrict center.
According to available information, the withdrawal and evacuation of the headquarters took place simultaneously. However, it remains unclear which party will assume control of these sites or determine how they will be used in the coming period.
Turkey-backed factions took control of Afrin and its countryside in March 2018 during the military operation known as “Operation Olive Branch.” Since then, many public and private buildings in the area have been converted into headquarters and military posts for the factions stationed there.
These developments come amid anticipation of possible field or administrative changes in Afrin and its countryside, while demands continue for the return of public and private properties to their original owners and for the area to be placed under civilian and lawful administration.
