Clashes intensify as SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) get closer to Raqqa during the 3rd phase of Operation Wrath of Euphrates. ISIS fights against SDF with all its force in order to not lose Raqqa; the most strategic location under their occupation. Yet, SDF fighters are advancing on Raqqa with a growing commitment despite all the counter efforts of ISIS groups. The fighters are resisting not only ISIS gangs but also desert storms almost every day. The fighters advance with almost no visibility during the storms but still do not lose their morale or enthusiasm at all.

SDF fighters chant the slogan "Bijî berxwedana YPG” [Long Live YPG resistance] and make the victory sign as our cameras capture them after every confrontation. Arab fighters that have joined the SDF and the campaign to liberate Raqqa recently also repeat the same slogan. When we ask these fighters "You are SDF, why are you chanting slogans for YPG?", they give us the following response:

"YPG is the soul of this resistance. We are SDF force but spiritually we also see ourselves as YPG, which is what brings us together. After all, we are all fighting for a democratic Syria and against atrocity. When we attack ISIS as Kurdish and Arab fighters, a bond of blood generates among us. In other words, we become siblings."

We also have different emotions as we listen to the dialogues, jokes and conversations the fighters have among themselves. The morale and enthusiasm of the fighters leaves a great influence. Similarly, the dedication to live and the commitment seen in their eyes, as well as the enduring smile on their faces despite all the challenging conditions they are facing, warms even the frozen hearts around. Their dedication to one another is worth seeing. When one of them is about to do something, all the others around come for help. When reinforcements are needed at the fore fronts, they all volunteer. Tens of them take action when one of them gets injured. It is as if nobody knows of death that moment. Some fighters volunteer for guard duty for hours after participation in day-long clashes, just so that other comrades can get some rest. Even observing a day of the fighters leaves one with deep emotions.