Syrian Arab Tribes Liberate Towns from US-Backed Kurdish Forces
In a dramatic escalation, a coalition of Syrian Arab tribes have captured several towns from US-backed Kurdish forces in eastern Syria’s Deir Ezzor governorate. The offensive, reported to be the largest against the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) since the Arab tribal rebellion began last year, involved heavy artillery and mortar fire.
Fierce clashes erupted early on August 7 between the SDF-linked Deir Ezzor and Hajin Military Councils and the “Army of Tribes” coalition.
The fighting centered around the towns of Abu Hamam, Dhiban, Al-Lattwa, Al-Kashkiya, and Gharanij, with significant battles in Al-Sabha and Al-Tayana, east of Deir Ezzor. Arab tribesmen employed RPGs and machine guns in the initial assault.
The SDF responded by imposing a complete curfew in its controlled areas and calling in large reinforcements from Hasakah and Raqqa. Amid intense search operations, residents reported widespread displacement, with three civilians killed and seven injured.
Local sources reported that tribal fighters captured at least 10 SDF militants and seized substantial weaponry.
The conflict also saw damage to three Hummer military vehicles near the American base at the Al-Omar oilfield. In a further escalation, US helicopters targeted tribal forces near the Euphrates River, and the US army sent reinforcements to its Al-Omar base.
Sheikh Ibrahim al-Hafel, who led last year’s rebellion against the SDF, declared on August 7 that the tribes would not submit to the SDF militants, asserting their right to liberate their territories. The tribal forces, reportedly trained and aided by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA), have been preparing for months and have now seized numerous strategic points, including Al-Busayrah and other key locations.
This surge in tribal activity follows the SDF’s controversial release of hundreds of ISIS fighters from prison camps in northern Syria, adding another layer of complexity to the region’s volatile situation. The situation remains fluid, with both sides suffering casualties and preparing for further confrontations.
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