In the early hours of August 7, under the cover of intense artillery and mortar fire, Syrian regime forces and their allied mercenaries, including the so-called “National Defense Forces” [Difa al-Watani] launched ground attacks and infiltration operations into areas along the eastern bank of the Euphrates River, Deir ez-Zor.

In response, the Deir ez-Zor Military Council and Hajin Military Council engaged in fierce clashes with the Syrian regime-backed mercenaries, estimated to number over 400 individuals, in the vicinity of the infiltrated villages. 25 mercenaries were eliminated and 10 others were wounded. Then, an immediate combing operation was initiated to clear the region of remaining mercenaries.

According to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), 13 civilians have been killed and twelve others injured in attacks by Syrian regime troops in Deir ez-Zor since Tuesday evening. In addition to regular army units and the Difa al-Watani regime militia, pro-Iranian mercenaries are also responsible for the massacre.

Footage published by the SDF Media Center documents the testimonies of civilians regarding the extensive destruction and damage inflicted upon their homes and properties in the village of al-Dahalah, located in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor.

The devastation was caused by indiscriminate and brutal shelling perpetrated by Syrian regime forces and their mercenaries positioned on the western bank of the Euphrates River. In this video appears the house where the horrific massacre occurred on August 9th.