Armed attacks target SDF checkpoint, fighter’s home in Deir ez-Zor
DEIR EZ-ZOR, Syria (North Press) – A military source in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) said on Thursday that one of their checkpoints in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor came under armed attack late Wednesday night.
The source reported that two unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire with a machine gun at an SDF checkpoint at the entrance to the village of Hawaij, east of Deir ez-Zor.
Clashes erupted following the assault, forcing the attackers to flee. The incident caused material damage but no casualties were reported, according to the source.
In a separate incident, unknown gunmen targeted the home of Ismail al-Jreed, an SDF fighter, in the town of Abu Hardoub with a hand grenade. The attack also resulted in material damage only, the source added.
Deir ez-Zor remains a volatile region, with ongoing challenges to security and stability. The resurgence of ISIS sleeper cells has been a significant concern, with multiple attacks reported in recent months. For instance, in August 2025, there were 22 confirmed sleeper cell attacks, resulting in 12 military personnel killed and 10 injured according to Rojava Information Center. These incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by ISIS remnants in the area.
The SDF continues to conduct operations to dismantle ISIS cells and maintain security, but the persistent threats from both extremist groups and local opposition forces present ongoing challenges to stability in Deir ez-Zor.