Kurdish Security Forces Capture Four ISIS Members in Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Internal Security Forces (Asayish), in a coordinated operation with the U.S.-led International Coalition, apprehended four members of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Deir ez-Zor’s western countryside. The Asayish announced the success of this raid in a statement on Thursday.
According to the statement, the four militants had illegally infiltrated from areas west of the Euphrates River into the village of Al-Jninah, west of Deir ez-Zor. The operation, described as “precise and successful,” was carried out on Wednesday.
Details of the Operation
The Asayish reported that the operation was the culmination of intensive intelligence-gathering and surveillance efforts by the International Coalition.
“Special units executed the raid swiftly and effectively, capturing the individuals without any casualties,” the statement said. A significant cache of weapons and equipment was also seized during the operation.
This development marks a continuation of security measures aimed at combating ISIS sleeper cells in eastern Syria.
Context of Recent ISIS Activity
The arrest of these ISIS members follows a U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announcement last Friday, confirming the death of an ISIS leader, Abu Youssef, also known as Mahmoud, in a precise airstrike in Deir ez-Zor. Abu Youssef was reportedly instrumental in orchestrating attacks and maintaining the group’s operational network in the region.
Despite losing its territorial caliphate in 2019, ISIS remains active in parts of Syria and Iraq, particularly through clandestine operations, sleeper cells, and sporadic attacks. The group continues to exploit instability in the region to regroup and target civilians and security forces.
Significance of the Operation
The recent operation highlights the ongoing cooperation between the Asayish and the International Coalition to counter ISIS’s resurgence. Such joint actions are pivotal in maintaining regional security, particularly in areas like Deir ez-Zor, which remains a hotspot for ISIS activity.
Security analysts suggest that the operation demonstrates the Coalition’s commitment to eradicating the remnants of ISIS in Syria. A local security official told North Press, “The capture of these four individuals disrupts ISIS’s plans to expand their influence in the area and sends a clear message that their movements are being monitored.”
Regional and International Implications
The successful operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-sharing and coordination between local forces and the International Coalition. It also comes at a time when the Coalition has reaffirmed its resolve to target ISIS operatives in Syria, even as the country faces broader political and security challenges.
The U.S.-led Coalition has vowed to continue its mission against ISIS, with officials recently stating that the group’s defeat is essential to stabilizing the region. This commitment remains critical as local forces like the SDF and Asayish grapple with pressures from multiple fronts, including Turkish military threats and unrest in areas under their control.
Challenges Ahead
Despite significant successes, challenges remain in the fight against ISIS. The group continues to exploit porous borders, political instability, and the lack of a unified Syrian security apparatus to maintain its presence.
Local residents in Deir ez-Zor have expressed concerns over ISIS sleeper cells’ ability to carry out attacks, particularly in remote and rural areas. “We need consistent security measures to prevent ISIS from regaining strength,” said a tribal leader from the region.
The Asayish’s statement emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance and continuing operations to neutralize ISIS cells and protect local communities.
A Broader Fight Against Extremism
The operation in Al-Jninah is part of a broader effort to dismantle ISIS’s operational capabilities in Syria and Iraq. While the group no longer controls territory, its ideological influence and capacity to inspire violence remain a global concern.
For the people of Deir ez-Zor, the recent arrests bring a sense of temporary relief, though the path to lasting peace and stability remains complex. Continued collaboration between local forces and international partners will be crucial in ensuring that ISIS does not regain a foothold in the region.