Key Outcome of SDF-Tribal Leaders Meetings: Strengthening Security and Cooperation in Deir Ezzor

In recent days, the leadership of our forces, including our SDF commander-in-chief Mazloum Abdi, and members of the SDF General Command Luqman Khalil, and Rohlat Afrin, met with tribal leaders and dignitaries from Deir Ezzor’s four regions, as well as tribal representatives from Al-Akidat and Al-Bakara clans.

During these meetings, Commander Abdi highlighted the crucial role the tribes have played, both historically and currently, in combating ISIS and safeguarding the hard-won regional gains achieved through the sacrifices of their people. He emphasized that the tribes deserve the greatest credit for liberating the region from terrorism and are essential for its continued protection against all future threats.

These productive meetings resulted in a key outcome: accelerating the implementation of the decisions reached at the recent “Conference on Strengthening Security and Stability” held in Deir Ezzor. The focus will be on completing the implementation of these crucial measures for the region’s well-being.  which directly addresses the demands presented by the elders and sheiks to the commander-in-chief and SDF General Command. These demands aim to improve the service, security, and administrative situation in the region.

The discussions also delved into the region’s security situation, including the work of the Justice Council and the status of detainees. There was a shared understanding that the detainee file would be reviewed, with a focus on reconsidering the cases of those whose hands are not stained with the blood of the people of the region.

Commander-in-Chief Abdi further emphasized transparency and accountability. He explained that any individual mistakes made by military or security forces while pursuing ISIS terrorist cells would be investigated internally.  Those found responsible will be held accountable to ensure justice is served. He emphasized that this particular issue was of interest to the leadership of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The meetings also addressed concerns raised by the sheiks and dignitaries regarding the disruptive role played by security services from the Syrian regime and its allies in Deir Ezzor. They accused these forces of interfering with regional security and stability, and of attempting to sow discord among the tribes. They stressed that those who implement the regime’s agendas in the region have no connection to the tribes and, in fact, actively oppose the tribes and the interests of the people of Deir Ezzor as a whole.

In the security file, The General Command reaffirmed the ongoing validity of the previously announced amnesty program. This program, established in collaboration with regional elders and dignitaries, offers amnesty to individuals who were misled into areas controlled by the Syrian regime. The amnesty program reflects an agreement reached during meetings between the general leadership and tribal representatives.

Regional elders and dignitaries further urged the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to intensify and sustain their campaign against remaining ISIS cells. They pledged their full support, offering all necessary resources to eliminate these terrorist threats that endanger the entire region. However, they also expressed a desire for a reevaluation of the methods employed during SDF raids and security operations against ISIS.

A key topic addressed during recent General Command meetings was the reintegration of individuals returning from the al-Hol camp. The decision was made to release an initial group of Deir Ezzor residents currently residing in the camp. This release, scheduled for the eighth of this month, will be facilitated by tribal leaders and elders. Upon release, these individuals will be integrated back into society. The General Command anticipates the release of additional batches following this initial group.

In the political file, The Commander-in-Chief and General Command members reviewed significant achievements within the region, with a particular focus on the role local communities have played in maintaining security and stability. In this vein, the General Command extended an invitation to all tribal leaders, sheiks, and dignitaries to participate in an upcoming tribal forum. The invitees expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to contributing to the forum.

Several sheiks and dignitaries lodged administrative and service complaints with members of the General Command, who in turn assured them of their commitment to addressing these issues promptly by liaising with the relevant authorities.

Responding to the elders’ requests, the General Command instructed pertinent institutions to expedite the proceedings of the compensation committee concerning the residences and businesses affected by last year’s incidents, particularly those situated along the banks of the Euphrates River. Additionally, discussions were held with sheiks and dignitaries on strategies to bolster agricultural activities in the region and facilitate support for farmers. The General Command also reaffirmed its dedication to restoring the public infrastructure damaged during the aforementioned events in the region.

Tribal elders and dignitaries voiced their concerns about combating corruption and holding corrupt individuals accountable. In response, the General Command assured them of its ongoing efforts to root out corruption from all sectors and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. Furthermore, some members proposed a restructuring of the administrative and service institutions in accordance with the directives of the “Conference on Strengthening Security and Stabilization,” a proposal that found favor with the General Command.

During these discussions, it was agreed to resume operations at humanitarian crossings, which had been suspended due to security incidents in the region, to provide essential services to the people of Deir Ezzor.

At the conclusion of the meetings, the General Command of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), speaking on behalf of all its fighters and commanders, expressed gratitude to the elders, tribal leaders, and citizens of Deir Ezzor. They acknowledged the unwavering support of the people of Deir Ezzor, along with their elders and leaders, highlighting their pivotal role in quelling unrest and division in the region.

The General Command affirmed its commitment to surmounting challenges faced by the people of Deir Ezzor, resolving their service and administrative concerns. These gatherings were emphasized as a cornerstone for future advancements in military, security, administrative, and service endeavors, aimed at bolstering security, stability, and development throughout Deir Ezzor.

The tribal elders and dignitaries expressed appreciation to the General Command of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) for its openness and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue regarding their presented demands. They emphasized the importance of regular future meetings to continue this collaborative approach.

The elders and dignitaries reiterated their unwavering commitment to the SDF. They emphasized their unity with the military and security forces, recognizing their shared fate and the importance of regional security. They declared that security and stability are paramount, even exceeding necessities.

The elders and dignitaries acknowledged the threats posed by the Syrian regime’s divisive tactics, ISIS’s acts of violence, and the Turkish occupation’s territorial ambitions. They reaffirmed their resolute opposition to these three entities.

Furthermore, they pledged their ongoing collaboration with the SDF and the Self-Administration to maintain security and stability throughout Deir Ezzor, northern, and eastern Syria. They underlined their unwavering stance and commitment to furthering the political, military, security, and service efforts that strengthen the region’s internal unity.