Clashes In East Syria Between Tribes, US-Backed SDF Intensify (Video)

Clashes in eastern Syria between Arab tribal fighters and the US-backed SDF reportedly have left several people dead and others wounded.

The clashes first broke on August 28, a day after the SDF detained and dismissed Ahmad al-Khabil, commander of Deir Ezzor Military Council from his position on charge of misusing authority and committing crimes. The SDF arrested him and several other members at a meeting they invited them to in the Hasakah city.

After this, the Deir Ezzor tribal fighters attacked positions of the SDF in different areas of the province in protest against the dismissal of Ahmad al-Khabil and the events that occurred after his arrest.

Heavy clashes were reported in Hawaij, Dhiban, Al-Kasra, Mohaymidah, Al-Shaheil and several other areas.

Also, the media close to the Syrian tribes have claimed that they control several areas and a number of headquarters belonging to the Syrian Democratic Forces in Abu Hardub, Al-Hassan, Muhaymidah, Al-Shanan, Daranj, Dhiban, Al-Tayana, Al-Shahil and Abu Hamam.

According to local sources, the SDF forces abandoned some of their positions and headquarters in Al-Sha’fa, Gharanij, Al-Hassan, and Al-Busayra areas for fear of being targeted by the armed tribal fighters.

So far, more details and the number of casualties on both sides have not been published. Also, due to the disruption of internet network in Deir Ezzor province, the communication and coverage of the conflict has also faced problems; Hence this issue has made it difficult to verify the authenticity of the news and confirm the published information.