Iran-backed militias regroup in eastern Syria
Iran-backed militias began regrouping in eastern Syria on February 5th two days after US airstrikes, according to Asharq Al-Awsat and agencies.
Local press reported the arrival of military reinforcements for the Afghan “Fatemiyoun Brigade” in the town of al-Sabikhan, east of Deir Ezzor City.
Five Toyota Hilux trucks loaded with short-range missiles and drones arrived at a water filtration station in the town, accompanied by Hezbollah and Iranian Revolutionary Guard fighters.
UK-based war monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), reported that militiamen transferred all available military vehicles from a warehouse in Deir Ezzor to Al-Tala’ae camp.
The Iran-backed militias purportedly emptied weapons caches in Deir Ezzor before the February 3rd strikes, relocating them in a major mobilization throughout the region.
READ: 39 dead in US strikes on Iraq and Syria
The nearby city of al-Bukamal, also saw extensive troop mobilization as militia commanders were relocated to a new headquarters in Port Saeed Street in Deir Ezzor, with some locals leaving the neighbourhood fearing being used as “human shields.”
Further mobilizations were reported from areas near the Syria-Iraq border to Palmyra City.
Inspections are being conducted by regime forces, on individuals coming from Syrian Defence Forces (SDF) controlled areas. It is presumed the checks are an effort to prevent information leaks, regarding militia movements to coalition forces.
Asharq Al-Awsat / agencies
