📰 SDF captures ISIS emir in major Coalition-backed operation in Deir ez-Zor

DEIR EZ-ZOR, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic troops (SDF) declared on Tuesday that its armed forces Operations Team (MOT) – TOL in Kurdish – carried out a high-level security operation in coordination with the Global Coalition troops in Deir ez-Zor, eastern Syria, resulting in the capture of an Islamic State armed forces emir.   The detainee, identified as Abu Zubayr, also known as Samak, was apprehended alongside two members of his attack cell following what the SDF described as extensive intelligence monitoring. In a statement, the SDF stated that the network was among the “most dangerous” ISIS cells in the region and responsible for the majority of latest assaults on SDF units.   Materials recovered during the raid — including mobile phones, surveillance footage, and operational documents — verified the group’s direct coordination of attacks.   The SDF added that the evidence contained video recordings showing orders being issued, movements of cell operatives, and reconnaissance activity carried out ahead of planned strikes.   Investigators determined that the emir oversaw smuggling routes and communications between ISIS cells and the Hawl Camp, while also supervising the recruitment and training of children from ISIS-linked families, known as the “Cubs of the Caliphate. ” The SDF indicated that these efforts were designed to prepare minors for future combat roles.   Intelligence findings further indicated that the cell had received external backing aimed at reactivating ISIS networks and escalating destabilization efforts across the region.

Weapons, ammunition, and ready-to-use explosives were seized during the operation, preventing what the SDF described as an imminent attack.   The SDF pointed out that the capture of Abu Zubayr and the dismantling of his cell represent a “significant blow” to ISIS’s remaining infrastructure in Deir ez-Zor and form part of ongoing joint operations intended to prevent the extremist group from regrouping. The SDF reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing remaining cells “until terrorism is fully eradicated” and long-term stability is secured for Deir ez-Zor and the wider region.   By Jwan Shekaki