25/09/2020

International Coalition and Syriac Democratic Forces launch security operation against ISIS cells on Syrian–Iraqi border

DAYRO ZCURO, Syria — The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with the support of ground forces and air cover from the U.S.-led International Coalition, began a large-scale security operation against Islamic State cells in the Wadi al-Ajij area on the Syrian-Iraqi border in the northern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, the Center for Coordination, Operations and Military announced.

According to sources, the operation targeted tunnels and roads used by ISIS cells in Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor) to hide and smuggle items and weapons through Wadi al-Ajij.

Coalition aircraft reportedly flew at low altitude above the operation area as the SDF and Coalition forces swept the area.

Wadi al-Ajij is an important gateway for ISIS cells to smuggle weapons and equipment between Iraq and Syria.

In June, the SDF launched a two-stage operation to hunt down ISIS cells in Dayro Zcuro and Hasaka. The campaign resulted in the arrest of dozens of ISIS members and leaders.