Syrian Democratic Forces arrest two senior Islamic State operatives in Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor)

DAYRO ZCURO, Syria — Amid escalating activities by the Islamic State (ISIS) cells in Syria, particularly in Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor) following the collapse of the former Syrian Ba’ath regime, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) continues its military campaign to combat ISIS in North and East Syria. 

In its latest security operation, the SDF, backed by the U.S.-led International Coalition, targeted ISIS remnant cells in the eastern Dayro Zcuro countryside. The operation led to the arrest of two high-ranking ISIS members: Hamoud Abdullah al-Khatib (Abu Zakariya), a leader of an ISIS cell responsible for extorting civilians and collecting zakat (taxes) for the group, and; Hannan Jabir al-Ali (Abu Muhammad), an explosives expert who supplied cells with improvised explosive devices to target civilians and the SDF. 

Additionally, the SDF confiscated significant military equipment, including ammunition crates, RPG launchers and various weapons. 

The SDF reiterated its commitment to ongoing operations against the terrorist organization of Islamic State cells attempting to destabilize the region, emphasizing its unwavering dedication to protecting civilians under all circumstances.

قواتنا تنفذ عمليتين أمنيتين بدعم من قوات التحالف في ريف ديرالزور الشرقي.
إلقاء القبض على إرهابيين خطيرين لداعش ومصادرة كميات كبيرة من الأسلحة.
عمليات مكافحة الإرهاب مستمرة. pic.twitter.com/ggvSaS2XB3

— Syrian Democratic Forces (@SDF_Syria) May 4, 2025