The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have dismantled 28 ISIS cells in northeastern Syria during the first half of 2024, capturing 233 operatives and killing 10 others. These operations, conducted with international coalition support, occurred despite ongoing attacks from Turkish forces and affiliated militias.

“Despite the ongoing Turkish attacks and the preoccupation of our forces in countering and resisting these attacks, our forces conducted 28 successful security operations supported by the international coalition forces against ISIS cells, thwarting numerous terrorist attacks and dismantling many cells,” the SDF Media Centre stated on 4 July.

The operations included six major attempts to foil assault plans and three large-scale operations in al-Hol (al-Hawl) camp, Hamrat area in Raqqa and the outskirts of Al-Hasakah (Hesekê). In al-Hol camp alone, 85 individuals were apprehended during Operation Humanity and Security.

Key successes included eliminating two ISIS operatives in Al-Talja, Al-Shaddadi on 4 January, and thwarting a car bomb attack in Al-Ezbah regiment, Deir ez-Zor (Dêrezor), on 3 June. The SDF also foiled escape attempts by ISIS detainees and intercepted multiple suicide attacks and IED placements.

The SDF emphasised the crucial role of local support in their counter-terrorism efforts. “We also honour the noble stance of our people, particularly those in Deir ez-Zor and Al-Hasakah, whose support was strategically crucial to our operations against terrorist cells,” the statement added.

Despite the ongoing challenges from Turkish military operations, the SDF reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining regional stability. The Kurdish-led forces praised the bravery of their fighters and pledged to continue their efforts to prevent an ISIS resurgence.