The Operation Cizire Storm launched on September 9 under the lead of Deir ez-Zor Military Council under Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has entered its last phase. Having liberated the eastern part of Euphrates until the border with Iraq, SDF fighters are ensuring the return of local people after sweeping and mine clearing operations in the liberated areas. With the people turning back home, their needs are being met and they are getting organized.

Besides Deir ez-Zor Civil Council, Operation Cizire Storm Spokesperson Lilwa Ebdullah is also visiting the people and listening to their problems. Ebdullah is met with great interest of the people as she visits the villages one by one. Most of the local people tell about their suffering from atrocities under ISIS occupation. Women say that the only thing they want now is to live freely in their homes without fear.

Spokesperson Lilwa Ebdullah state that the existing Civil Council of Deir ez-Zor will be expanded once the operation is finalized, that communes and local assemblies will be established, and that people will govern themselves.

Spokesperson Ebdullah, who is from Deir ez-Zor herself, stressed that they want to create an environment where people can feel safe and overcome the trauma they have been through under ISIS atrocity.

She continued; “I know what these people have experienced and how they feel. People are gradually turning back to liberated areas. On the other hand, winter is coming and people have needs. We are visiting the people, talking to them, determining their needs and telling them the Democratic Northern Syria model. People are getting to know democracy. They feel excited over what we tell them, and embrace it. The method of people’s self-government and establishment of mechanisms to this end, is met with great interest.”