The local security forces (Asayish) imposed an entry and exit ban on several cities in North and East Syria on Monday because of the "Operation Security Reinforcement" launched by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against ISIS cells in Deir ez-Zor region on Sunday evening. The ban covers the city of Hesekê as well as the districts of Hol and Shaddadi.

The offensive launched by the SDF in cooperation with the international anti-ISIS coalition under the name "Operation Security Reinforcement" late on Sunday night aims to track down and root out terror cells in order to stop potential attacks. The background is an increase in ISIS attacks against the civilian population, security personnel and local government employees. The operation is also directed against organised crime and smuggling networks.

The area of operation includes areas east of the Euphrates, but primarily the Deir ez-Zor region in eastern Syria. It is not yet clear how long the operation will last. However, the entry and exit bans are not to be lifted until the operation is over.