Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), stated that the Syrian regime, Turkey, and Iran are fuelling unrest in Deir ez-Zor (Dêrezor) with the aim of forcing the withdrawal of American forces and driving the SDF out of the region, in an interview with Al Monitor’s Amberin Zaman on Thursday.
Abdi’s statements come in the wake of a more than week-long Operation Security Reinforcement in Deir ez-Zor that resulted in 90 fatalities.
The conflict was ignited by the arrest of Abu Khawla, a local tribal chief and head of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council, by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), which is led by the SDF. Abdi acknowledged that Arab criticisms about governance and security are legitimate and vowed “to address their legitimate grievances and work together to improve their lives.”
Regarding the United States involvement, which has an estimated 900 special operations forces deployed in the region, he clarified that they intervened by sending senior diplomatic and military officials. “The Americans wanted to resolve the issue through dialogue. Their representatives engaged with local actors to help de-escalate the situation,” Abdi added.
Abdi accused the Syrian regime, Turkey and Iran of exacerbating the unrest to compel the withdrawal of American forces. “Their goal is to get the Americans out and to drive the SDF out of this area,” he explained. This international meddling complicates an already fraught local dynamic, adding layers of geopolitical intrigue to the ongoing domestic issues.
On the topic of oil, Abdi clarified the SDF’s stance. “The local population’s fuel needs are largely met. But there are problems among the tribes themselves. Everyone wants to get involved in the petroleum business,” he highlighted.
While the United States has been providing military support, Abdi expressed dissatisfaction in other areas, saying “Insofar as providing diplomatic backing for our local administration here, it falls short.”
Abdi emphasised the need for dialogue and collaboration with local tribal leaders to bring about lasting solutions. “As soon as full calm is restored, we will hold a congress where all of these grievances will be on the table. We are more determined than ever to address their legitimate grievances and work together to improve their lives,” he promised.
The SDF commander also refuted allegations of forced conscription in Deir ez-Zor, stating, “This is absolutely untrue. All military service is paid for and voluntary.” He further denied claims of torture and mistreatment of locals during the operation, pledging a full investigation into such allegations.
In a series of tweets on Thursday, Commander Abdi announced that tribal leaders from Raqqa have been tasked with initiating dialogue with Sheikh Ibrahim al-Hifl, following discussions about the recent situation in Deir ez-Zor. Abdi also stated that an amnesty for detainees is in the works. He urged residents to exercise caution and avoid falling into the traps of incitement and sectarianism. Additionally, he called on the media and social media users to promote a language of fraternity and civil peace. Abdi reaffirmed the SDF’s commitment to resolving Deir ez-Zor’s issues through dialogue, with peace, stability, and development as the ultimate goals.
