ERBIL — In the wake of escalating clashes between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and tribal fighters, the US-led Coalition issued a resounding call for the immediate cessation of violence in northeast Syria.

The Global Coalition’s statement, released on Thursday, came in response to the tragic loss of 40 lives during these recent clashes between the SDF and other armed groups in northeast Stria.

“Combined Joint Task Force — Operation Inherent Resolve continues to closely monitor events in northeast Syria,” reads the statement. “We remain focused on working with the Syrian Defense Forces (SDF) to ensure the enduring defeat of Daesh (ISIS).”

Furthermore, the Coalition expressed deep concern over the current turmoil, asserting that it “creates instability and increases the risk of Daesh (ISIS) resurgence. The violence in northeast Syria must cease and the effort returned to creating peace and stability in northeast Syria free from the threat of Daesh (ISIS).”

Stressing the imperative nature of the situation, the Coalition reaffirmed its unwavering commitment is to reinstate peace and stability to the region, liberating it from the looming threat of Daesh.

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— Operation Inherent Resolve (@CJTFOIR) August 31, 2023

The International Coalition’s core mission persists in advising, assisting, and empowering partner forces to secure the enduring defeat of IS.

Recent clashes have been concentrated in select areas of Deir ez-Zor's countryside, primarily involving SDF forces and members of the Military Council. Notably, the latter successfully gained control of the Ahmed al-Khabil (Abu Khawla) palace in the village of al-Rabidah, in north of Deir ez-Zor.

In response to the unfolding crisis, the Deir ez-Zor Military Council has appointed Turki Dhari al-Khalaf, known as Abu Laith Khasham, as the interim commander, succeeding Abu Khawla.

Simultaneously, protests against the SDF have erupted within the Deir ez-Zor countryside. Demonstrators resorted to blocking roads with burning tires to voice their grievances.

Tragically, on Wednesday, a checkpoint operated by the SDF in northern Syria came under attack. This resulted in the loss of two SDF fighters and six tribesmen in Al-Harejah town, located in northern Deir ez-Zor.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the SDF officially confirmed the removal of Deir ez-Zor Military Council's commander, Ahmed Al-Khubail, known as Abu Khawla. This decision followed his arrest earlier in the week, with charges including involvement in criminal offenses like drug trafficking, mismanagement of the security situation, and exacerbating the activities of IS cells.