Unprecedented SDF movements toward Syrian desert ahead of anti-ISIS op

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News Websites
29 Jun 2025 22:32

The Syrian Democratic Forces launch unprecedented military movements from Raqqa to the Syrian desert, preparing for a major anti-ISIS campaign supported by the International Coalition.

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Members of the Syrian Democratic Forces pose for a portrait at a checkpoint in the northeastern city of Hassakeh, Friday, Jan. 31, 2025 (AP)

The Syrian Observatory has reported unprecedented military mobilizations by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with hundreds of four-wheel drive vehicles and military trucks loaded with weapons and equipment moving from Raqqa toward the Syrian desert.

According to sources from the Observatory, the movements are part of ongoing preparations for a new security campaign aimed at eliminating ISIS remnants in various parts of the Syrian desert. The operation will be conducted with air support provided by the International Coalition.

Initial indications suggest that the objective of the operation is to further restrict active ISIS cells responsible for carrying out surprise attacks on SDF units in the region. This comes amid a noticeable uptick in security operations and intelligence-driven movements over recent weeks.

ISIS eyes resurgence in Syria, Iraq, exploiting divisions

Middle East and Western officials warn that the ISIS resurgence in Syria and Iraq is underway, as the group reactivates sleeper cells and prepares for potential attacks in the wake of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s fall.

According to over 20 sources, including security officials, diplomats, and analysts, ISIS operatives have begun redistributing weapons, identifying targets, and recruiting fighters across both countries.

In this context, ISIS on Sunday claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing that targeted the Mar Elias Church in the Duweila district of Damascus, killing at least 20 worshippers during Sunday mass. The group's statement, shared via affiliated media channels, said the attacker detonated an explosive vest inside the church while congregants were gathered in prayer.

According to eyewitnesses cited by RIA Novosti, the bombing was a deliberate attack on civilians: "A terrorist detonated an explosive device at a church in Dweila during a service. Some people were killed." Syrian state media confirmed the attack, with Syria TV reporting that the explosion occurred inside the church during the liturgy.