SDF Deputy Spokesperson Warns: ISIS resurgence efforts will be met with strong response

Since the fall of the previous Ba’athist regime, Syria has experienced security vacuums, which ISIS gangs have exploited to reorganize and carry out attacks amid increasing instability. The neglect by the Transitional Government and the divided loyalties in some areas have created fertile ground for assassinations, infiltrations, and the reactivation of sleeper cells.

In an interview with ANHA Agency, Al-Zouba discussed recent attacks in NE Syria, highlighting that these assaults aim to undermine regional security and stability. He noted that, in the absence of active state actors to counter ISIS, the SDF has taken on the exclusive responsibility of confronting the militants.

Al-Zouba pointed out that in certain Syrian regions, no forces oppose ISIS, giving the mercenaries opportunities to rebuild and attempt to regain territorial control. Since their defeat in 2019, ISIS has increasingly relied on guerrilla tactics, including targeted assassinations.

He confirmed that ISIS has carried out over 160 attacks in NE Syria since the beginning of this year, targeting SDF forces, tribal leaders, civilians, and officials within the Democratic Autonomous Administration. Al-Zoubi also stressed the role of external agendas in supporting ISIS, specifically mentioning remnants of the former regime, Turkey, and Iran.

Regarding the March 10 agreement, Al-Zouba stated that the ceasefire stipulated in the first clause, agreed between SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi and Mr. Ahmad Al-Shar’a, was violated by the Transitional Government forces.

Al-Zouba emphasized that some parties seek to destabilize Syria and perpetuate sectarian conflict, while the SDF remains committed to Syria’s territorial integrity and peace. He affirmed that the SDF opposes sectarian conflict and violence, prioritizing the security and unity of the country.

He noted that civilians are not the only victims of conflict; the main beneficiaries are ISIS cells, who exploit clashes between the SDF and the Transitional Government to spill more blood and attempt to rebuild territorial control.

Al-Zouba concluded by noting that the SDF possesses the expertise and capability to deal with ISIS.

 Recent attacks show attempts by the group to reorganize and revive its presence, particularly in NE Syria. The SDF has taken comprehensive security measures, including reinforcing checkpoints, monitoring sleeper cells, and maintaining ongoing operations to track and neutralize ISIS gangs.

Al-Zouba emphasized that the ongoing ISIS attacks do not benefit the Syrian people nor the Transitional Government, as ISIS seeks to reestablish itself. He stated: “The recent attacks are clear evidence of this. ISIS mercenaries are well-equipped logistically, with weapons and funding.”

Al-Zouba noted that the SDF has arrested one of the ISIS leaders and added: “Since the fall of the Syrian regime until today, the SDF has captured more than 95 ISIS gangs.”

Al-Zouba addressed the components of NE Syria, affirming that the SDF’s duty is to maintain security and stability in the region, and that anyone attempting to destabilize the area will face a decisive response.

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ANHA