Wrath of Euphrates Operation Room fighters spoke to ANF on the second phase of their initiative to liberate Raqqa. SDF fighters stated that they have liberated several villages and hamlets, and rescued tens of civilians from ISIS during the second phase of the Wrath of Euphrates Operation.

‘WE RESCUED TENS OF CIVILIANS’

SDF fighter Ehmed: ISIS gangs know our sensitive approach and tried to use civilians as human shields. However, the civilians escaped and took refuge at a secure hill. ISIS gangs shot fires in the direction of the civilians’ escape route, and were forced to retreat when their attack failed. They left behind guns and ammunition.

ISIS gangs oppressed, tortured and massacred civilians since 2014. Over the past 3 years, they forced their so-called religious law upon the people and used torture and oppression. However, our people rejected ISIS mentality and asked us to rescue them. When the conditions were ripe, we launched Raqqa initiative and will end ISIS menace as we liberate Raqqa!

‘WE ARE MORE CAREFUL’

SDF fighter Mihemmed: We continue the second phase of our initiative with our operations in western Raqqa. However, we are more careful because of the importance of civilians’ safety, which is our utmost priority. Every day, tens of civilians escape from ISIS occupied areas and arrive at the regions that we have liberated. We try to fulfill the needs of incoming civilians, and share our bread, water and blankets with them. We pay special attention to act within the boundaries set by international agreements.

As SDF fighters, we will always make an effort to ensure the safety of civilians everywhere. We call upon our people to stay away from the areas where clashes take place during our operations.