Deir Ezzor tribes urge US coalition to stay away from terrorist plans
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Deir Ezzor tribes have sent a message to the US-led coalition, urging it to distance itself from the agendas of groups seeking to destabilize the region.
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A US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighter watches illumination rounds light up Baghouz, Syria, on March 12, 2019. (AP)
The tribes of Deir Ezzor sent a clear message to the US-led coalition, emphasizing that they are not affiliated with ISIS and rejecting claims about the displacement of residents from the "seven villages".
The statement issued by the tribes read, "We reject the claims made by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) that the attack on the seven villages yesterday was carried out at the request of the tribes." It further stated, "We are committed to combating ISIS and ensuring that no terrorist group returns to our lands."
The tribes called on the coalition to distance itself from the agendas of groups seeking to destabilize Deir Ezzor. They also urged it to remain neutral and avoid supporting any factions that may undermine the region's stability.
The statement emphasized that the tribes will take action against any aggressors, declaring, "We demand that our people in SDF-controlled areas swiftly and decisively put an end to any attempts that could bring further calamity to the region."
'Fears of ISIS return to our towns illogical'
In a related development, a statement from the sons, dignitaries, and notables of the tribes of the seven villages (al-Hussainiya, al-Salihiya, Hatla, Marat, Khasham, Mazloum, and Tabia) — including tribes such as Al Bakara, Al Anabza, Al Maamra, Al Bou Shalhoum, Al Bou Ali al-Hussain, Al Dulaim, al-Ak Bubdran, and Al Bakir — clarified that the presence of international coalition forces in their villages was primarily to combat the terrorist group ISIS. The statement strongly asserted, "We are not ISIS."
It went on to address recent attacks on their villages, stating, "Since the beginning of this month, groups under your protection have been launching attacks on our peaceful villages under unfounded pretexts. They claim displaced people wish to return, but no one has stopped them from doing so. The homes of our people — parents, siblings, and relatives — have not been attacked, and they continue to live in safety in their homes."
The statement continued, "One of the justifications for these attacks is the claim that they are being carried out at our request. We categorically and unequivocally deny this. We are living in peace, security, and stability, and these attacks have only resulted in chaos, displacement, destruction, and the settling of personal scores."
The statement also addressed the argument that there are fears of ISIS's return to the area, calling it "illogical." It emphasized, "We are fully responsible for preventing any terrorist group from returning to our area. As for anyone who wishes to return to their home in any village, their homes — along with ours — are ready to welcome them."
The statement concluded by addressing those managing the international coalition, urging them, "Do not be misled by these false claims. If these groups persist in their actions, we ask that you clarify your position and distance yourselves from this issue. We, as tribes, handle our affairs without interference. As for these groups, we are a unified tribal community, regardless of the presence of Syrian Arab Army units, and we will take action against any aggressor among you who seeks to destabilize the area's security. Such individuals will be regarded as outlaws, their blood deemed permissible to shed by law and tribal custom."
