Title: Syrian Democratic Forces still facing instability in Deir Ezzor
Introduction :
Syria’s Deir Ezzor province is the scene of violent clashes between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Arab insurgents. While the FDS announced the total recapture of localities in the province, the situation remains very unstable. Guerrilla operations take place daily, highlighting tensions between Kurdish and Arab factions within the SDF.
Fighting and incessant guerrilla warfare:
After the arrest of the head of the Deir Ezzor Military Council, Arab fighters affiliated with local tribes launched attacks against the SDF in an attempt to drive them from the province. These clashes left more than 70 dead and lasted several days. The SDF eventually regained control of the attacked localities, but Arab insurgents continue to carry out guerrilla attacks, mainly at night, against SDF bases.
Divergent opinions and lingering animosity:
The violence is not limited to the arrest of the head of the Deir Ezzor Military Council. Numerous accusations of abuses against local Arab populations have contributed to the animosity towards the FDS for several years. Members of the al-Uqaidat tribe, who are behind most of the attacks, continue to fight against the SDF and their leader, Ibrahim al Hafl, remains on the run.
Harassment actions and human losses:
Attacks by Arab insurgents primarily target SDF installations and patrols. These assaults occur daily, causing human losses for the FDS. Despite regular arrests made by the FDS in localities, Arab insurgents continue to challenge the Kurdish forces, demanding in particular their withdrawal from the province of Deir Ezzor.
Conclusion :
The province of Deir Ezzor remains an unstable front where tensions between the Kurdish and Arab factions of the Syrian Democratic Forces are palpable. The fighting and guerrilla operations continue to cause human losses despite the recapture of the attacked localities. Resolving these tensions appears essential to achieving lasting stability in the region.