SDF captures two ISIS operatives in Deir ez-Zor countryside
DEIR EZ-ZOR, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Thursday the arrest of two Islamic State (ISIS) operatives during a targeted security operation in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor.
According to a statement issued by the People’s Protection Units (YPG), a component of the SDF, the operation was carried out in the village of Hawi al-Dhiban, a known hotspot for ISIS activity, with direct support from the US-led Global Coalition.
The SDF’s Tactical Operations Units (TOL), specialized in counterterrorism efforts, led the raid. The operation focused on a cell reportedly involved in smuggling and distributing weapons within ISIS networks in the region. The statement confirmed that two members of the cell were detained during the operation, which was conducted without casualties.
This development comes a day after the SDF announced the arrest of a senior ISIS figure in the city of Hasakah, signaling a continued campaign to dismantle sleeper cells operating across areas administered by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
The SDF, in coordination with the Global Coalition, has maintained consistent counterterrorism operations aimed at preventing ISIS resurgence. These operations are part of broader efforts by the AANES to preserve security and stability in areas under its governance, where the threat of extremist violence remains a pressing concern.
Security sources within the region have repeatedly pointed to ISIS’s attempts to reorganize through covert cells, particularly in regions with complex tribal dynamics and proximity to areas beyond AANES control.
The success of this latest operation reinforces ongoing efforts to contain such threats and protect local communities from renewed insurgent violence.