Self-Defense Forces of North and East Syria launch new training program amid rising ISIS threats

TABQA, North and East Syria — A new training cycle for the Self-Defense Forces (HXP) of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) has commenced in rural Tabqa, consisting of 140 fighters from across North and East Syria. This two-month program, aimed at enhancing combat readiness and strategic awareness, coincides with ongoing security challenges posed by ISIS sleeper cells, including two recent attacks in eastern Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor).

Organized by the Defense Authority of North and East Syria, in collaboration with the General Command of the Self-Defense Forces and the Euphrates Academies, the course is being held at Martyr Jamal Kobani Academy in Mansoura, Tabqa. Named after Mohammad al-Nasser, nom de guerre Jamal Kobani, the program integrates intensive ideological, political, and combat training to strengthen the participants’ military capabilities.

The opening ceremony was attended by local leaders, military officials from the Tabqa Military Council, and representatives from the Internal Security Forces. Speakers underscored the strategic importance of bolstering defensive measures to counter persistent instability in the region.

SDF Repels Twin ISIS Attacks in Dayro Zcuro

While new recruits prepare for their roles, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) confirmed the successful repulsion of two simultaneous attacks by Islamic State (ISIS) sleeper cells late Monday night in eastern Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor).

An official SDF statement revealed that the first attack targeted a military outpost of the Diban Brigade, while the second assault occurred at an SDF position in al-Shuhayl, a town frequently affected by insurgent activity.

SDF forces engaged the attackers, forcing them to retreat while inflicting casualties. The statement highlighted the ongoing threat posed by ISIS operatives in the region and reaffirmed the SDF’s commitment to counterterrorism operations.