SDF 200 metres from ISIS in Deir ez-Zor

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are steadily advancing against ISIS in the remaining areas the extremist group holds in eastern Deir ez-Zor province. 

They have advanced 12 kilometres and arrived at the western gate of Hajin town.

“The distance between ISIS and us is roughly 200 meters,” said Haval Bahoz, an SDF fighter.

SDF commanders predict nearly 2,000 ISIS militants are in this region.

Deputy commander of the coalition’s combined joint task force, Maj. Gen. Felix Gedney, said in a tweet on Tuesday that ISIS fighters “continue to surrender rather than face certain death.”

The SDF announced on May 1 the final phase of its operations against ISIS in the Hajin pocket and in al-Dashisha along the border with Iraq. 

Iraqi jets struck alleged positions of ISIS leaders in Dashisha on the weekend. 

Gedney said the SDF is coordinating with Iraqi security forces operating across the border.