Euphrates Crossing offensive (2017)

The Euphrates Crossing offensive, launched in 2017, was a military operation conducted by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supported by the United States-led Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in the Raqqa Governorate of Syria. The primary objective of the offensive was to isolate and eventually capture the city of Raqqa, which had served as the de facto capital of ISIS.

The offensive began in late March 2017, focusing initially on securing the countryside to the east of Raqqa. Key elements of the offensive involved crossing the Euphrates River, a strategic and symbolic move to encircle Raqqa from multiple directions. The SDF utilized air support and logistical assistance from the US-led coalition, including airstrikes targeting ISIS positions, supply routes, and command centers.

Significant battles took place in towns and villages surrounding Raqqa as the SDF gradually advanced towards the city. Securing key infrastructure like the Tabqa Dam and the nearby town of Tabqa was crucial to the offensive’s progress.

The subsequent siege of Raqqa itself, beginning in June 2017, was a lengthy and intense urban warfare campaign. The SDF faced fierce resistance from ISIS fighters who had fortified the city with extensive defensive positions, including tunnels and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The battle for Raqqa concluded in October 2017 with the SDF declaring victory and liberating the city from ISIS control. The offensive resulted in significant territorial gains for the SDF, weakened ISIS's capabilities in the region, and contributed to the overall effort to defeat ISIS in Syria. However, the offensive also resulted in widespread destruction in Raqqa and a large displacement of civilians.