The SDF and their international coalition backers are combatting ISIS in two main pockets of territory in eastern Deir ez-Zor province, near the border with Iraq: Hajin town north of al-Boukamal and al-Dashisha along the border.
“Attacks from these areas have been increasing in recent weeks as ISIS has sought to reorganize and refit,” the SDF announced, declaring their intent to “purge [ISIS] from our land.”
The offensive is being led by the Deir ez-Zor military council – a local force fighting under the SDF banner and with the support of the US-led anti-ISIS coalition.
The announcement comes shortly after the resumption of operations in the province after an "operational pause" during Turkey's offensive on Afrin.
“We continue to stand alongside our partners and ensure the liberation of all terrain held by ISIS terrorists,” said coalition commanding general Maj. Gen. James Jarrard in a separate statement. “This is a key milestone in bringing lasting stability to both Iraq and Syria.”
The Deir ez-Zor military council stated they also “welcome the support of the Iraqi forces across the border.”
Iraqi planes struck ISIS targets last month on orders from Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who is also commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported the deaths of at least 14 people, including 5 children, in airstrikes by unknown warplanes on Tuesday.
The UK-based conflict monitor suspected the planes were either Iraqi or coalition and targeted al-Qasr village, southern Hasaka province, which it said is sheltering Iraqi refugees and Syrians displaced from Deir ez-Zor and is under ISIS control.
Syrian state media reported the deaths of 25 civilians in airstrikes on al-Fadel village in southern Hasaka province, putting the blame on the coalition.
The SDF and Syrian regime forces clashed over the weekend. Both are fighting ISIS in the oil-rich Deir ez-Zor province.
