Military leader in Deir ez-Zor: We will protect our region from ISIS Mercenaries

In recent months, several cities and towns in Deir ez-Zor have witnessed a noticeable increase in the activities of ISIS mercenary cells. This has coincided with significant political and military developments in Syria, particularly following the collapse of the previous regime.

 In light of these changes, political and military leaders from NE Syria have called on the International Coalition to Combat ISIS to remain vigilant and continue supporting the SDF in its fight against these mercenaries. The SDF leadership has warned that ISIS is attempting to exploit the current situation and political shifts in Syria to regroup and re-establish its presence.

 In an exclusive statement to ANHA agency, Abdul Karim Al-Fendi, the leader in the Hajin Military Council, noted that ISIS mercenary cells have increased their activity notably since the fall of the regime. They have taken advantage of the power vacuum in areas previously controlled by the government.

 Al-Fendi highlighted that their forces have intensified security measures and enhanced their capabilities to monitor and target ISIS movements in cooperation with the International Coalition. He explained that the group's heightened activity became evident after the withdrawal of regime forces from parts of Deir ez-Zor, creating new challenges for the council's mission.

 The military leader emphasized the importance of strong coordination with the International Coalition, an ally of the SDF. He noted that the coalition has provided assurances of continued commitment to regional stability and collaboration to fight ISIS, reflecting a shared determination to curb the group's activities.

 Al-Fendi also pointed out that external-affiliated cells, once tied to the former regime’s militias, are now significantly weakened and no longer pose the same threat to the security and stability of NE Syria as they once did.

 He added that plans are underway to ensure the stability and safety of local residents in the coming days, noting that the SDF has a proven track record and the resilience needed to adapt to shifting circumstances and respond to emergencies.

 Al-Fendi reiterated that the SDF is a force dedicated to peace, not war, but stands prepared to defend its regions .

 A Surge in ISIS Activity in 2024

 The year 2024 saw a marked escalation in ISIS mercenary cell operations. Hardly a day passed without incidents such as bombings, ambushes, or surprise attacks, particularly in Syria’s desert regions, which extend into the north and east. These attacks resulted in hundreds of casualties, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

 In response, the SDF, in coordination with the International Coalition, launched several security operations across Hasaka, Deir ez-Zor, and Raqqa. These efforts have helped to contain, to some extent, the activities of ISIS cells.

 The Syrian Observatory documented over 264 operations conducted by ISIS cells in NE Syria in 2024, targeting areas such as Deir ez-Zor, Hasaka, Aleppo, and Raqqa. These included armed attacks, assassinations, and methods such as shootings and planting improvised explosive devices. These operations resulted in the deaths of 120 individuals.

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ANHA