SDF announces launch of security sweep in Hasakah to target ISIS cells
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Saturday the launch of a large-scale security sweep in Hasakah city in northeastern Syria and its surrounding areas, aimed at dismantling cells and networks of the Islamic State (ISIS).
In a statement, the SDF said the operation is being carried out in coordination with the Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria (Asayish) and the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), with specialized Military Operations Teams (MOT) providing intelligence support.
The campaign seeks to pursue ISIS remnants, dismantle logistical support networks, and prevent potential attacks on prisons and detention facilities, the statement added.
The SDF emphasized that the operation prioritizes the safety of civilians and urged residents of Hasakah to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities.
At dawn on Saturday, the SDF and the Asayish forces closed off all entrances and exits to Hasakah as dozens of military vehicles were deployed across the city. Eyewitnesses reported convoys moving along the M4 Highway late Friday night in preparation for the sweep.
ISIS sleeper cells remain active in northeastern Syria despite the group’s territorial defeat in 2019. Hasakah has witnessed repeated ISIS-related incidents, including the January 2022 attack on al-Sina’a Prison, which triggered days of clashes and underscored the ongoing threat posed by the extremist group.
Security operations are regularly conducted in the region to prevent ISIS from reorganizing.