SDF refutes Interim government allegations over Deir Hafir

The Media Center of the Syrian Democratic Forces issued a statement today on circulating claims about civilian movement in Deir Hafir in the al-Tabqa Canton, stating:

“Our forces categorically deny the allegations issued by the ‘Ministry of Defense’ in Damascus claiming that civilians are being prevented from fleeing the city of Deir Hafir. We affirm that the disruption of civilian movement in the area is the result of military escalation, troop mobilization, and continuous shelling carried out by Damascus factions. Meanwhile, the same party has officially acknowledged the closure of all crossings with the regions of North and East Syria, according to a statement issued on January 6, which exposes the clear contradiction in its narrative.

We stress that any displacement of civilians under threat of force by Damascus constitutes a war crime under the Fourth Geneva Convention and the Rome Statute, which prohibit targeting civilians, spreading terror among them, and criminalize any actions aimed at forcing them into displacement.

We call on the international community, the United Nations, and human rights organizations to condemn these dangerous methods, which could lead to the displacement of more than 170,000 civilians amid severe weather conditions.

Today, the people of Deir Hafir have proven their attachment to their land and homes, and no party has the right to strip them of their right to remain there under military pressure.”

a.k

ANHA