The Syrian Army has been focusing on clearing the east bank of the Euphrates from fighters of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS; formerly ISIL/ISIS), while the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, (SDF) have consolidated their control over the west.
A spokesman of the SDF has reportedly stated that Syrian Arab Army troops will not gain permission to cross the Euphrates in establishing control over the entirety of Deir ez-Zor province.
The SAA broke the three-year-long siege on Deir ez-Zor on 5 September, significantly reducing crucial supply routes for IS.
Ruptly
