The United States military has called for an immediate end to the fighting between rival U.S.-backed groups in east Syria, warning that it could lead to the resurgence of the Islamic State (IS) group. The clashes, which began on Monday in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour, have resulted in the deaths of at least 40 people and left dozens wounded. This is the worst outbreak of violence in the region in years. The conflict has pitted members of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against the Arab-led Deir el-Zour Military Council, with some regional Arab tribesmen joining the latter.

The Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve, responsible for the U.S. mission against IS, stated that they are closely monitoring the situation and are focused on working with the SDF to ensure the enduring defeat of the terrorist group. Reports suggest that sporadic clashes continue to occur in various parts of the area along the Iraq border, and both sides are said to be bringing in reinforcements. In response to the escalating violence, the SDF and the council jointly dismissed Ahmad Khbeil, also known as Abu Khawla, from his position as commander of the Deir el-Zour Military Council.

Khbeil, along with four other militia leaders, was accused of engaging in multiple crimes and violations, including drug trafficking. His alleged coordination with external entities hostile to the revolution, believed to be references to contacts with the Syrian government in Damascus and its Iranian and Russian allies, also led to his removal. These clashes have raised concerns about further divisions among the SDF and its allies in the region, particularly in light of the fact that IS militants still launch occasional attacks in eastern Syria.

The U.S. military stressed that distractions from the critical work of ensuring peace and stability in northeast Syria create instability and increase the risk of an IS resurgence. They emphasized the urgent need for the violence to cease and for efforts to focus on creating a peaceful and stable environment in the region, free from the threat of IS. Currently, there are at least 900 U.S. forces deployed in eastern Syria, along with an undisclosed number of contractors. They work closely with the SDF to prevent the return of IS and maintain regional security and stability.