Deir ez-Zor offensive (April–July 2014)

The Deir ez-Zor offensive (April–July 2014) was a military operation launched by the Syrian Armed Forces and its allies against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Deir ez-Zor Governorate during the Syrian Civil War. The offensive aimed to break the siege of Deir ez-Zor city, which had been under ISIS pressure for months, and to regain control of key areas within the governorate.

The offensive initially focused on securing the military airbase and surrounding areas, which served as a crucial supply line for the besieged government-held parts of Deir ez-Zor city. Fierce fighting took place around the airbase and key strategic points along the supply route.

While the Syrian Army and its allies made some initial gains, the offensive ultimately stalled due to strong ISIS resistance, logistical challenges, and the diversion of Syrian Army resources to other fronts. ISIS maintained its grip on most of Deir ez-Zor Governorate, and the siege of the city continued.

The offensive resulted in significant casualties on both sides. ISIS also reportedly committed atrocities against civilians in areas under its control.

The April-July 2014 offensive was just one of many attempts by the Syrian government to break the siege of Deir ez-Zor. The city remained under siege until September 2017, when a subsequent Syrian Army offensive, supported by Russian air power, finally succeeded in lifting the siege.