The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Media Centre issued a statement about the attack carried out on Sunday by mercenaries backed by the Syrian regime on the villages of Abu Hardoub, Dhiban, and Abu Hamam. The SDF successfully thwarted the attack and killed 19 mercenaries.

The statement said: "On Sunday morning, mercenaries backed by the Syrian regime launched an assault employing heavy artillery, mortars, and rocket-propelled grenades on the villages and towns of Abu Hardoub, Dhiban, and Abu Hamam, situated on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River. This offensive led to numerous casualties, including civilians."

The statement added: "The attack commenced at five o’clock in the morning, originating from three different directions: the Syrian regime-controlled areas of Sabikhan, Dweir, and Al-Mayadin, on the western bank of the Euphrates River. Despite the relentless shelling, the mercenaries sought to infiltrate the villages and towns of Abu Hardoub, Dhiban, and Abu Hamam.

Nevertheless, our forces confronted them, resulting in intense clashes that culminated in the elimination of 19 mercenaries, including 6 in the town of Dhiban and 13 others in the village of Abu Hardoub. Furthermore, a vessel transporting a contingent of mercenaries was obliterated, and 20 mercenaries sustained injuries, among them Marwan Al-Fadel, a prominent figure in the Syrian regime-backed militia “Aousoud al-Sharkiya”. Our forces also confiscated substantial quantities of weaponry, ammunition, and military apparatus."

The statement continued: "A mortar shell originating from the western bank of the Euphrates impacted a civilian house, resulting in the martyrdom of four civilians and the injury of ten others. Additionally, three of our fighters attained martyrdom during the skirmishes with the mercenaries.

Our forces affirm their unwavering commitment to preserving the security and stability of our territories. They stand resolute in taking decisive measures against anyone who seeks to jeopardize the safety and tranquility of our region."