SDF commander warns about intensified ISIS activity in Syrian desert
HASAKAH, Syria (North Press) – Mahmoud Habib, spokesperson for the Northern Democratic Brigade—part of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)—warned on Monday of increased movements by ISIS cells across several parts of the Syrian desert.
Speaking to North Press, Habib said that the group’s activity has grown significantly in recent weeks, particularly in the southern countryside of Raqqa, the Palmyra region, Damascus countryside, and areas near the Iraqi border.
“These recent ISIS movements pose a serious threat to the security and stability of Syrian towns and cities,” Habib added.
He emphasized the continued joint training and coordination between SDF units and the U.S.-led Global Coalition, aimed at bolstering their collective ability to confront the extremist group.
Habib pointed out that this partnership has already yielded results, with several successful operations conducted against ISIS targets outside the SDF-controlled regions east of the Euphrates.
While he stopped short of revealing specifics, Habib hinted at the possibility of upcoming military action targeting ISIS cells operating in central and southern Syria.
“Our forces are fully prepared to defend civilians and protect these areas from any terrorist threats,” he stated, reaffirming the SDF’s commitment to ensuring greater stability across Syria.
When asked about the possibility of coordination with the Syrian government, Habib responded: “To my knowledge, there is no direct military cooperation between the international coalition and the Syrian Ministry of Defense. Field operations continue to rely on the long-standing partnership between the SDF and coalition forces, which has now spanned more than a decade.”