On August 29, 2023, armed clashes erupted between Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Deir Ez-Zour Military Council backed by Arab tribes from the region. The clashes, which involved the use of light and medium weapons, are still ongoing, taking place in the villages and towns in rural Deir Ez-Zour governorate. The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) has documented the deaths of at least 13 civilians to date, including one woman and two children, to date as a result of the clashes, with at least 31 other civilians wounded.
SNHR has not yet been able to ascertain which party was responsible for the deaths and injuries of the civilian victims as of this writing. The opposing forces bear responsibility for identifying those responsible.
It should also be noted that the clashes are still ongoing at this time, with the number of casualties increasing as fighting continues.
SNHR condemns all killings no matter which party is responsible. We also condemn the clashes between the SDF against Deir Ez-Zour Military Council and the Arabi tribes which have continued, as of this writing, since August 29, 2023. We call for bringing an immediate end to the fighting to ensure the safety of civilians in the area, and to prevent any further damage to civilian objects.
