ISIS cells have launched a series of attacks on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and civilians in the Deir Ezzor countryside. These areas, located in northern and eastern Syria, have been targeted by ISIS militants following a temporary halt in violence. The pause occurred after Iran-backed gunmen had attacked SDF-held regions in August.
Since the defeat of ISIS in 2019, the group has continued to use guerrilla tactics to destabilize the region. Their strategy involves ambushes and assassinations aimed at weakening the SDF and causing chaos in the territories under their control. Despite losing its territorial stronghold, ISIS remains a significant threat in these regions.
In the last ten days, activists from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) have documented nine attacks carried out by ISIS cells in Deir Ezzor. These attacks are concentrated in the rural areas of the region, where security and governance are often more fragile. The frequency and intensity of these assaults highlight the ongoing challenge posed by ISIS despite their official defeat.
The recent attacks have led to the tragic death of a young girl and have left several civilians and combatants injured. The rise in violence underscores the enduring presence of ISIS in Syria and the difficulties faced by the SDF in maintaining control and security in these volatile areas.
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