The US-backed SDF attacked the last stronghold of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL) near Baghouz in the Deir ez-Zor Governorate, Sunday.
The US-backed SDF had asked the IS members in the area to surrender until 17:00 (GMT 15:00) on March 10. As the deadline passed, coalition airstrikes and the SDF heavy weaponry were used at around 18:00 (GMT16:00).
Footage shows fireballs landing in the area and smoke rising.
SDF spokesperson Mustafa Bali tweeted on Sunday that its forces were engaged in “direct violent clashes” and that its planes were targeting weapons depots.
According to SDF, the operation against the last IS stronghold started on March 1, after nearly 15,000 IS members surrendered with their families. It was then paused on March 4, as more wanted to surrender.
It is estimated that up to 10,000 IS members and families have surrendered between March 4 and 10, as SDF reports.
Credit: Ruptly
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