US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Meets Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Tribal Leaders Amidst Deir ez-Zor Conflict
US Embassy in Syria emphasizes the need for de-escalation and addresses civilian concerns in Deir ez-Zor region.
In a significant diplomatic move, the US Embassy in Syria announced that Ethan Goldrich, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, and Coalition Commander Major General Joel B. Vowell held a crucial meeting with leaders of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and tribal leaders from Deir ez-Zor. The discussions revolved around the escalating situation in the Deir ez-Zor region.
The meeting yielded a consensus on several key issues. According to the US Embassy in Syria, the participants stressed the vital importance of addressing the grievances of the residents of Deir ez-Zor. They also voiced concerns over external interference in the region, the imperative to minimize civilian casualties, and the urgent need to de-escalate violence.
Furthermore, Deputy Assistant Secretary Goldrich and General Vowell underscored the significance of the strong partnership between the United States and the Syrian Democratic Forces in their joint efforts against ISIS.
In a parallel development, the US-led coalition issued a statement reiterating its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Deir ez-Zor region. The coalition emphasized the necessity for local leaders to resist the influence of malign actors who may promise rewards but ultimately deliver suffering to the local population. It was noted that such a situation could potentially lead to the resurgence of the common enemy, Daesh (ISIS).
NEA Deputy Assistant Secretary Goldrich and OIR Commander Major General Vowell met in northeast Syria with the SDF, the SDC, and tribal leaders from Deir El-Zour. They agreed on the importance of addressing the grievances of residents of Deir El-Zour, the dangers of outsiders…
— U.S. Embassy Syria (@USEmbassySyria) September 3, 2023
The conflict in Deir ez-Zor had intensified since August 27, sparked by clashes between the SDF and Arab tribes. These tensions were exacerbated when the SDF arrested and removed Abu Khawla, the head of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council, a predominantly Arab group that had been part of the SDF and had actively fought against ISIS.
Recent reports from the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) indicated that the SDF has initiated comprehensive combing operations in Al-Basirah city, located in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, after achieving full control of the area. Additionally, they have commenced operations in Al-Shuhail town after securing parts of it. SOHR reported that the region is currently experiencing a state of calm and a cessation of hostilities between the opposing sides.
The situation in Deir ez-Zor remains fluid, and international stakeholders are closely monitoring developments as they work towards achieving stability and peace in the region.
