U.S-led anti-IS coalition reiterates support for SDF

“We will continue to stand by our partners to ensure the lasting defeat of Daesh [IS],” the coalition said in a statement posted on Twitter.

SDF, which is spearheaded by the People’s Protection Units (YPG), is known most reliable ally of the US in the fight against Islamic State (IS).

“Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are on the offensive to defeat Daesh in the Middle Euphrates River Valley.”

A commander for the SDF said on Monday, May 7, that they have made significant advances against IS militants on the Syrian border territory.

Ahmed Abu Khaula told Sputnik that the SDF fighters have reached areas four kilometers away from the Iraqi border.

“Amid the operation that we have begun a week ago, we have made remarkable advances in the Deir Ezzor region,” said Khaula.

Syrian Democratic Forces were able to seize approximately 16km of territory near the Iraqi border, he added.

The US-led coalition provided support for the SDF fighters by launching airstrikes against IS positions, according to Khaula.

The SDF, an alliance dominated by the People’s Protection Units (YPG) and backed by U.S.-led coalition air strikes and special forces, have been fighting to defeat IS militants in Syria.

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