SDF, Coalition launch joint operation against ISIS cells in Raqqa
QAMISLI, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Saturday that, in coordination with the U.S.-led Global Coalition, they are conducting a large-scale security operation in the city of Raqqa, northern Syria, targeting hideouts of Islamic State (ISIS) sleeper cells.
In a statement, the SDF said their units, with “full support” from Coalition forces, are pursuing ISIS remnants as part of ongoing efforts “to combat terrorism until its final eradication from the soil of our homeland.”
“Our forces are eliminating the terrorist elements, destroying their facilities and hideouts, and affirming that there is no place for extremism and violence among civilians,” the statement read.
The SDF added that the operation remains underway and that updates will be provided once site inspections and threat assessments are completed.
The latest campaign underscores the continued security challenges in Raqqa — once the de facto capital of ISIS — where recent months have seen a resurgence of attacks targeting security personnel and local administrators.
Raqqa, liberated from ISIS in 2017 by the SDF with backing from the U.S.-led Coalition, remains a focal point of anti-terror operations in northeastern Syria.
Despite the group’s territorial defeat, sleeper cells continue to carry out assassinations, bombings, and kidnappings in rural areas of Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and Hasakah.
The SDF and Coalition forces conduct regular joint raids to dismantle these cells, which often exploit instability and economic hardship to recruit new members.
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) has repeatedly called for sustained international cooperation to prevent an ISIS resurgence and stabilize the region.
This latest operation comes amid growing concerns that ISIS may attempt to regroup following the withdrawal of some Coalition units and the redeployment of SDF forces to secure Syria’s northern borders.