Self-Defense Forces will be partaking in the second phase of the Operation Cizire Storm led by Syrian Democratic Forces against ISIS in Deir ez-Zor deserts and Syria-Iraq border.

After a convoy of Self-Defense Forces reached Deir ez-Zor, the fighters raised their flag and took their positions in the first battle front of the Operation Cizire Storm. The campaign was launched by YPG-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on June 4 to liberate the countryside of Deir ez-Zor from ISIS and secure the Syria-Iraq border.

Majority of the Self-Defense Forces is made up of Arab youth from Shaddadi and Deir ez-Zor regions that have been liberated by the SDF.

Self-Defense Forces had previously taken part in the first phase of the Operation Cizire Storm and other liberation campaigns against ISIS across Northern Syria.

Operation Cizire Storm Spokesperson Lilwa Abdullah said in an interview on Wednesday that fighters have freed an area of over 3.000 square kilometers from ISIS gangs and continued: “For the liberation of these areas, the fighters moved in from the 3 fronts of the operation, namely Mergeda, Shaddadi and Hawl. 50 villages and hamlets were liberated in these areas. Large amounts of weapons and ammunition have also been confiscated from the gangs.”

Lilwa Abdullah stated that hundreds of civilians have been rescued from the liberated villages and hamlets in the second phase of the operation: “The rescue of civilians happened through the opening of safety corridors. ISIS gangs were using civilians as human shields to stop the advance of our forces. Our forces will fight ISIS gangs and all who endanger the security of the region and of civilians. Our forces will fight all enemies and will not let any force to endanger the security of the liberated areas.”

Abdullah said added; “Our partnership with the Iraqi army continues. We have formed joint operation chambers along the border. The purpose of these is to ensure border safety against gangs. And the coalition forces offer air support for border safety.”