ISIS resurgence sparks concerns amid SDF’s ongoing battles against Turkish-backed aggression
NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — In an interview with Syriac Press, newly appointed spokesperson for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Abjar Daoud warned of an alarming increase in Islamic State (ISIS) activities as the group attempts to reclaim territory in Syria. Daoud attributed the resurgence to weapons abandoned by the previous Syrian regime forces during their retreat.
As the SDF continues to counter assaults from Turkey and its Syrian National Army (SNA) proxies, Daoud noted that ISIS sleeper cells have intensified attacks in rural areas of Hasakah, Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor), and Raqqa, seeking to exploit the instability caused by external aggression. These developments highlight the persistent threat posed by the terrorist group.
Daoud expressed particular concern over ISIS’s attempts to bolster its ranks by targeting detention centers holding its fighters. He recalled the 2022 attack on Sinaa Prison in Hasakah, lauding the SDF’s efforts to thwart the operation and recapture all escapees. Additionally, he pointed to efforts by ISIS to smuggle families and indoctrinate children — known as “Cubs of the Caliphate” — from the Al-Hol Camp, warning of the long-term risks this poses.
Addressing demands by Turkey and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to take control of detention centers in North and East Syria, Daoud rejected the proposal as a serious security threat, suggesting it could lead to the release of detainees who have collaborated with Turkey, further destabilizing the region.
Daoud emphasized the importance of collaboration between the SDF and the US-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, highlighting their shared commitment to preventing the group’s resurgence.
He concluded by commending the resilience and unwavering support of the region’s diverse communities, assuring that the SDF remains steadfast in its mission to defend the region against all threats.

Siyamend Ali, spokesperson for the People’s Protection Units (Yekîneyên Parastina Gel, YPG), also stated to our newsdesk that ISIS continues its efforts to stage a resurgence. The group aims to carry out terrorist attacks targeting military forces and civilians while attempting to free its members from prisons and their families from camps.
Ali stated that ISIS has recently escalated its activities, taking advantage of the security vacuum created by new developments in Syria. He emphasized the urgency of preventing ISIS’s return, citing the group as a severe threat to the region’s ethnic communities and global security.
“ISIS remains the greatest danger globally,” Ali said, underlining the importance of vigilance in countering the group.