SULAIMANI, Kurdistan Region – Joint operations against ISIS sleeper cells in northeastern Syria (Rojava) have been suspended due to threats from Turkish-backed groups, according to Mazloum Abdi, General Commander of the US-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Abdi described the situation as “a military reality,” rather than a deliberate decision.
In an interview with Sky News, Abdi stated that ongoing attacks by Turkish-backed groups have forced the pause in anti-ISIS operations. He warned that ISIS militants are resurging in the region, taking advantage of increased freedom of movement in the Syrian plains.
Abdi also noted that ISIS activity in SDF-controlled areas has risen, citing a recent militant attack in Hasakah province that killed three members of the SDF’s Internal Security Council.
Abdi expressed concern over the potential escape of ISIS prisoners held by the SDF, warning that such an event could escalate instability in the region.
His remarks come amid ongoing power struggles in Syria, as various factions vie for influence following the fall of the Syrian regime.
