In a written statement on Wednesday, the General Command of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced the martyrdom of Commander Roni Welat (Şervan Hesen), member of the Military Council and member of the Command of the Military Council of Deir-ez-Zor. Roni Welat lost his life in a cowardly terrorist attack east of Deir-ez-Zor while fulfilling his duty, said the statement, which further included the following:

"We, the SDF General Command, take this opportunity to express our condolences to all the fighters, the people of North and East Syria and the family of our martyr.

Martyr Roni loved the land of his country and sacrificed his life for it. During his years of struggle, he made many sacrifices without hesitation, especially against the terrorist organisation DAESH (ISIS) and the occupying Turkish state and its gangs. He was at the forefront of the long-lasting war against the terrorist organisation in Girê Spî, Manbij, Raqqa and Tabqa. He also commanded the struggle for the liberation of Hajin from DAESH in Deir-ez-Zor and continued his struggle until he was martyred.

Our comrade Roni was one of the first commanders who participated in the formation of the Self-Defence Forces in North and East Syria, supervising the training and organisation of the fighters.

Martyr Roni's history is full of sacrifices. He was also known for his courage, knowledge and initiative in the fields of resistance. He made a significant contribution to the establishment of peace and security in Deir-ez-Zor by raising the rules of the brotherhood of peoples and defeating the sedition spread by some. He took his place in everyone's hearts with his humble qualities. He was close to everyone in the region, young and old alike. He took it upon himself to solve all problems.

In the recent "Operation Security Reinforcement" launched by our forces, our comrade Roni led many reconciliation efforts and strengthened unity and solidarity among sheikhs and tribal elders. He stopped and defeated the civil war in which the opposition gangs tried to drag the local people into the war.

Martyr Roni's important role in the post-ISIS Deir-ez-Zor; reconstruction, establishment of military and administrative institutions and good relations with the people of the region, made him a definite target for the opposing sides.

Martyr Roni's comrades, especially the commanders in Deir-ez-Zor, who closely recognised his pure qualities, benefited from and admired his expertise, military and social experience, confirm that his legacy will continue in Deir-ez-Zor and the entire region of North and East Syria.

On this basis, we express our condolences to Martyr Roni's family, his comrades and our people."

The identity information of the fallen commander was announced as follows:

Nom de Guerre: Roni Welat

First-Last Name: Şerwan Hesen

Father’s Name: Hisen

Mother’s Name: Hediye

Place and Date of Birth: Qamishlo/1979

Place and Date of Martyrdom: Deir ez-Zor, 5 December 2023