Islamic State Steps Up Attacks in Eastern Syria Amid Counterterrorism Efforts

Islamic State (IS) militants have intensified their attacks in eastern Syria, specifically in the Deir al-Zour province, targeting oil tankers in two separate incidents on Thursday. These attacks coincide with an expanded counterterrorism operation by Syrian authorities aimed at dismantling IS networks throughout the country.

According to the Britain-based war monitor, suspected IS gunmen opened fire on a tank truck in the village of al-Tayyahki, located north of Deir al-Zour. While the vehicle sustained damage, there were no reported casualties. In a second incident in the town of al-Shahil, gunmen attacked another tank truck, resulting in injuries to the driver.

Surge in IS Activities

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that these incidents are part of a troubling trend, noting a rising wave of IS activities in the eastern Euphrates region. Over recent months, sleeper cells have reportedly engaged in ambushes, bombings, and assassinations. Since the beginning of 2025, the group has conducted a total of 215 attacks in areas controlled by the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration in eastern and northeastern Syria. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of 97 individuals, including 68 members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and allied units, as well as 15 civilians and one SDF collaborator.

In response to the escalating violence, Syrian security authorities released video footage showing security forces conducting raids on suspected IS hideouts across multiple provinces. This initiative is part of a nationwide counterterrorism campaign that began last week. The operations are being coordinated with the General Intelligence Directorate and are based on “precise intelligence monitoring.” The primary goal is to dismantle IS networks and apprehend militants. However, officials did not provide specific details regarding arrests or casualties resulting from these operations.

International Coordination and Strategy

The intensified crackdown follows a recent visit to the United States by Syria’s interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa. During this visit, discussions focused on collaborative efforts to combat remaining IS cells in the Syrian desert and eastern regions. This cooperation underscores the international community’s commitment to addressing the persistent threat posed by IS in the area.

As the situation continues to evolve, the Syrian government faces the dual challenge of combating IS insurgency while managing the broader implications of regional stability. The ongoing violence in Deir al-Zour highlights the complexities of security in a region still grappling with the remnants of conflict and terrorism.