Manbij is a historical market and agricultural town in northeastern Aleppo Governorate. Before the war it served as a local trade and agrarian centre with mixed communities. It was captured by armed groups during the conflict, occupied by ISIS (2014–2016) and retaken in 2016; the fighting and occupation caused notable urban damage and heritage loss.

As of 2025 the city is in a fragile recovery stage: partial return of residents, but substantial socioeconomic strain, leftover IEDs/landmines, and limited reconstruction funding. Political and security tensions in northern Syria affect investment and large-scale rehabilitation; basic services have been restored in parts but infrastructure and livelihoods require broad support.