ISIS Attacks Kurdish Asayish Checkpoints in Syria’s Qamishli Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Asayish forces conducting a security operation in Qamishli following recent attacks. (North Press)
Asayish forces conducting a security operation in Qamishli following recent attacks. (North Press)

By Kardo Roj 

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – On Tuesday, the Internal Security Forces, known as Asayish, reported two targeted attacks on their checkpoints in Qamishli and surrounding areas by suspected Islamic State (ISIS) sleeper cells. These incidents reflect escalating security concerns in northeastern Syria, exacerbated by simultaneous assaults from Turkish-backed factions.

According to an Asayish statement, the first attack occurred shortly after midnight at a checkpoint in the al-Zanoud neighborhood of Qamishli. The attackers threw hand grenades at the post, causing material damage but no injuries. In response, Asayish units launched a large-scale operation to track the perpetrators.

The second attack took place later on the same day at the Iskenderun checkpoint, which connects al-Hol and Tel Hamis. This assault tragically resulted in the death of an Asayish member belonging to the elite Hêzên Antî Teror (HAT) counter-terrorism unit.

The Asayish attributed these incidents to a coordinated effort by ISIS cells to destabilize the region. They further noted that the timing coincided with intensified offensives by Turkish-backed factions on northeastern Syrian territories, compounding the security challenges faced by the region.

A Resurgent ISIS Threat

The resurgence of ISIS activity in the region is raising alarm. In its latest report, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) highlighted 153 ISIS attacks in Iraq and Syria from January to June 2024, a sharp increase compared to previous years. These numbers underscore the persistent threat posed by ISIS sleeper cells, particularly in areas like northeastern Syria, where the remnants of the organization still find opportunities to operate.

Ongoing Regional Turmoil

The Asayish, a key component of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), continues to play a vital role in maintaining security within the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). However, their efforts are frequently undermined by attacks from both ISIS and Turkish-backed groups.

On December 30, 2024, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights documented fierce clashes between the SDF and Turkish-backed factions, resulting in 31 fatalities. These confrontations have become increasingly common, as Turkey considers the SDF to be an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). 

Asayish’s Call to Action

The Asayish has called on the local population to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding the region. In their statement, they appealed for increased international recognition of the challenges faced by northeastern Syria, including the ongoing threat from ISIS and the aggression from Turkish-backed forces.

Implications for Regional Stability

The attacks highlight the fragile security situation in northeastern Syria, where competing threats from ISIS and Turkish-backed factions jeopardize efforts to establish stability. The Asayish and SDF’s dual role in counterterrorism and territorial defense underscores the immense pressure they face as they work to protect gains made against ISIS in recent years.

As the new year approaches, the region’s security hangs in the balance. Sustained international engagement and support are essential to prevent a security vacuum that could enable ISIS to regroup and expand its influence.