Are the SDF and Inherent Resolve planning a maxi-operation against Isis? The M2A2 Bradleys, recently arrived in the area, were spotted on patrol between Deir Ezzor and Hasaka to “familiarize” with the terrain

Is a maxi anti-Isis operation in preparation in eastern Syria? In the last few hours, the presence of US M2A2 Bradley armored vehicles in various locations between Hasaka and Deir Ezzor was recorded for the first time. The vehicles, which had recently arrived in the Middle Eastern country, were part of joint patrols between Inherent Resolve and the SDF. At the moment, however, there is no news of their possible use in offensive actions against IS in the quadrant. According to international sources, the new assets are “familiarizing” with the scenario, in the event of their possible intervention – if necessary – in support of the Arab-Kurdish forces. This, however, does not exclude that this support may be precisely in the offensive sphere. On the other hand, there have already been some signs, with targeted air raids on jihadist positions in the Badia desert on the border with Iraq.

The maneuvers against IS, if confirmed, will act on two axes: one between Busayrah, Shahil and Dhiban along the Shaddadi Road. The other east and north towards Iraq and Turkey

If the maxi operation SDF-Inherent Resolve against Isis is confirmed, it is likely that the maneuvers will focus on two axes. The first is between Busayrah, Shahil and Dhiban, along the Shaddadi Road. The quadrant is the main hub from which terrorists infiltrate eastern Syria via the Euphrates. Not surprisingly, there are the main logistics and financing networks for jihadists. The second is the area between Deir Ezzor and Hasaka on the border with Iraq and Turkey. Here are groups of IS militiamen who try to survive and reconstitute ranks, as well as to move to the neighboring countries to carry out attacks and return or flee. Moreover, the M2A2 Bradleys are optimal both for protecting the bases of the Arab-Kurdish forces and oil installations and for moving on this type of terrain. They already demonstrated this in Iraq during the first Gulf War.