02 Sep 2023 | 10:33 AM UTC
Syria: Kurdish officials impose curfew in Deir Ez-Zur Governorate, Sept. 2
Kurdish officials impose a 48-hour curfew in Deir Ez-Zur Governorate, Syria, from 05:00 Sept. 2. Action in response to armed conflict.
Event
The Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) declared a 48-hour curfew in Deir Ez-Zur Governorate from 05:00 Sept. 2. The curfew, which likely only includes SDF-controlled eastern and northern parts of the governorate, is in response to clashes sparked by the arrest by the SDF of the leader of the Deir Ezzor Military Council, Ahmad al-Khabil. Since late August, dozens of people have reportedly been killed in fighting between the SDF and Arab fighters. The SDF has blamed the Islamic State (IS) and the Syrian government for stoking the violence. The SDF supports the US in operations against IS. The US military's Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve has called for the fighting to cease.
Further clashes are likely until a resoltuion is found. Heightened security measures and additional movement restrictive measures may be implemented in the governorate in response to the conflict in the coming days.
Advice
Avoid travel to the impacted area until the situation calms. Ensure stringent security measures are in place if traveling. Heed the instructions of local officials. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
