Renewed skirmishes | Tension grows in the cities of al-Hasakeh and al-Qamishli between “Asayish” and regime forces

Al-Hasakah governorate – Syrian Observatory for Human Rights:

SOHR sources have monitored tension between the Security Forces “Asayish” and regime forces, following the arrest of several civilians and members of the “Asayish” by regime forces in the city of Al-Hasasha. “Asayish” reacted arresting several members of the regime forces in al-Qamishli and al-Hasakeh. According to Syrian Observatory sources, there are efforts to end the tension and release detainees held by both sides.

Yesterday, reliable sources informed SOHR that Syria Democratic Forces have demanded regime forces leave Al-Ghubaysh and Tel Shumayran villages in Tel Tamr countryside following harassment by regime soldiers against the residents and their repeated asking for levies at a makeshift checkpoint this evening.

Moreover, the region has experienced security tension between SDF and regime forces, along with besieging regime military positions in these villages by SDF. Meanwhile, Russian forces have interfered to defuse the disagreement between the two sides. However, no agreement has been reached so far.

In mid February, reliable sources informed SOHR that the regime-backed “National Defence Forces” (NDF) amassed troops in Tayy neighbourhood which is under their control in Al-Qamishli city for unknown reasons. According to SOHR sources, several NDF members opened fire on a checkpoint at which members of the Internal Security Forces (Asayish) stationed at the entrance of Tayy neighbourhood. However, Asayish Forces did not reply, while no casualties were reported.

On February 2, the Internal Security Forces “Asayish” issued a statement in which it announced the lifting of the siege on the Syrian regime-held areas in the cities of al-Qamishli and Al-Hasakah, allowing the entry of all materials to these areas.