SDF launches operation against ISIS after deadly attack

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launched on Wednesday a large-scale operation targeting Islamic State (ISIS) cells in the islamic group’s former stronghold of Raqqa in retaliation to a deadly ISIS attack on the Kurdish force late last year.

The SDF announced “the launching of a large-scale security operation named ‘Operation Retaliation for Raqqa Martyrs’ and the forming of a joint operations room backed by International Coalition airpower, aimed at targeting the terrorist cell and their dangerous operatives,” the US-backed force said in a statement.

A deadly ISIS attack targeted SDF positions in Raqqa on December 26, killing at least six fighters of the Kurdish force and injuring many others.

“Immediate results” were achieved after the latest operation commenced, according to the SDF, who added that they quickly began raiding positions in Raqqa and its countryside after the operation was launched at midnight.

The SDF took over Raqqa from ISIS in Oct. 2017 with the support of the US-led anti-ISIS coalition. Nevertheless, ISIS insurgent cells remain active in the city.

“There is no doubt that the elimination of the so-called ISIS capital and its last stronghold by the Syrian Democratic Forces constituted a better opportunity to ensure safety in the Middle East and the world,” the SDF’s statement ended.