siege of Deir ez-Zor (2014–2017)

{{Main|Deir ez-Zor clashes (2011–2014)}}

Since the end of 2013, rebel forces surrounded Deir ez-Zor and captured half of the city and almost the entire province. ISIL became increasingly involved in the battle. The following rebel infighting in and near the city resulted in ISIL retreating from Deir ez-Zor in February 2014.

In April 2014, following their defeat at the hands of the rebels, ISIL returned and launched a large-scale offensive against the Syrian rebel groups in the Deir ez-Zor Province, expelling them from the area, and allowing ISIL to gain control of most of the Deir ez-Zor Governorate and besiege the remaining Syrian Government forces, in July 2014.

{{Main|Deir ez-Zor clashes (2011–2014)|Deir ez-Zor offensive (December 2014)}}

File:Deir ez-Zor Governorate (July 15 2014).svg

From early to mid-September 2014, ISIL made several unsuccessful attempts to breach the Deir ez-Zor military air base. During the fighting on 15 September 2014, the Siasiyya Bridge that links the rural countryside and the city was destroyed. It was unclear who destroyed it.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ez-zor-erupts-violence-firefights-ongoing-deir-ez-zor-military-airport/|title=Deir ez-Zor Erupts in Violence; Firefights Ongoing at the Deir ez-Zor Military Airport|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=3 September 2014|access-date=5 March 2017|archive-date=11 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411084103/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ez-zor-erupts-violence-firefights-ongoing-deir-ez-zor-military-airport/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-halts-offensive-deir-ezzor-military-airport-siasiyya-bridge-destroyed/|title=ISIS Halts Offensive at Deir Ezzor Military Airport; Siasiyya Bridge Destroyed|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=15 September 2014|access-date=5 March 2017|archive-date=4 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904113459/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-halts-offensive-deir-ezzor-military-airport-siasiyya-bridge-destroyed/|url-status=dead}}

In late October 2014, the Army launched an offensive on the Sakr Island and within days made several advances, capturing 90 percent of the island, with ISIL forces left in control of only its northern part.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/175-isis-fighters-killed-deir-ezzor-saa-advances-sakr-island/|title=Over 175 ISIS Fighters Killed in Deir Ezzor; SAA Advances at Sakr Island|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=25 October 2014|access-date=5 March 2017|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111212340/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/175-isis-fighters-killed-deir-ezzor-saa-advances-sakr-island/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-suffers-heavy-casualties-deir-ezzor-syrian-army-destroys-2-tunnels/|title=ISIS Suffers Heavy Casualties in Deir Ezzor; Syrian Army Destroys 2 Tunnels|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=31 October 2014|access-date=5 March 2017|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112023806/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-suffers-heavy-casualties-deir-ezzor-syrian-army-destroys-2-tunnels/|url-status=dead}} One month later, the Army resumed its offensive on the island.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-republican-guard-continues-offensive-sakr-island/|title=Deir Ezzor: The Republican Guard Continues Their Offensive at Sakr Island|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=28 November 2014|access-date=5 March 2017|archive-date=4 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704135956/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-republican-guard-continues-offensive-sakr-island/|url-status=dead}}

In early December 2014, ISIL launched an offensive in the direction of the Deir ez-Zor military air base. During three days of fighting, 68–200 militants and 43–51 soldiers were reported killed.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=7693|title=Regime forces use Chlorine gas to stop ISIS advances in Der-Ezzor military airport |publisher=SOHR |date=6 December 2014 |access-date=6 December 2014}}{{cite web|title=Deir Ezzor: ISIS Suffers Significant Losses Near the Military Airport|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-isis-suffers-significant-losses-near-military-airport/|website=Al-Masdar|date=6 December 2014|access-date=6 December 2014|archive-date=26 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190526223711/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-isis-suffers-significant-losses-near-military-airport/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=7696|title=111 killed in 3 days of violent clashes between regime forces and ISIS in Der-Ezzor |publisher=SOHR |date=6 December 2014 |access-date=6 December 2014}} Despite ISIL managing to penetrate the air base,{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/12/06/ISIS-seizes-part-of-key-air-base-in-east-Syria-monitor.html|title=ISIS seizes part of Syria's Deir Ezzor air base: monitor|date=6 December 2014|access-date=6 December 2014}} as well as seize the mountain overlooking the city and two nearby villages,{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=7682 |title=ISIS takes control on al-Jafra village and kills no less than 30 soldiers in regime forces |publisher=SOHR |date=5 December 2014 |access-date=5 December 2014}} the Army eventually pushed ISIL's forces back and repelled the offensive.{{cite web|title=Syrian army regains control of Deir ez-Zor airport|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2014/12/recent-developments-on-ground-syria-december-2014.html|website=Al-Monitor|date=9 December 2014}}

On 5 January 2015, ISIL closed all roads, and cut all optical fiber cables and other electric wires and cables leading to government-held districts of Deir ez-Zor.{{cite web|url=https://jfldz.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Siege-of-Deir-Ezzor.pdf|title=420 days of siege laid on Deir Ezzor: The De Facto Reality of the Besieged Neighborhoods with Numbers|work=Justice for Life Observatory in Deir Ezzor|date=February 2016|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010120315/https://jfldz.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Siege-of-Deir-Ezzor.pdf|archive-date=10 October 2017}}

By May 2015, fierce back-and-forth fighting raged in the city, with the Syrian Army and ISIL launching a series of attacks and counterattacks against each other.{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/565341-syria-regime-prepares-deir-ezzor-evacuation|title=Syria regime prepares Deir Ezzor evacuation|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=19 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019184314/https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/565341-syria-regime-prepares-deir-ezzor-evacuation|url-status=dead}} Early that month, ISIL forces captured Sakr Island. Two weeks later, the Syrian Army claimed that it was able to recapture most of it.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-asserts-fire-control-over-sakr-island-in-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian Army Asserts Fire-Control Over Sakr Island in Deir Ezzor|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=18 May 2015|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921185038/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-asserts-fire-control-over-sakr-island-in-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} However, it was confirmed that the island was still under ISIL control.{{Cite web|url=https://carnegie-mec.org/diwan/60312|title=After Palmyra: Military and Economic Targets of the Islamic State|website=Carnegie Middle East Center}} At this point, due to ISIL's capture of the city of Palmyra, rumors started circulating that Syrian Government forces were preparing to abandon and surrender the city of Deir ez-Zor to ISIL.

In September 2015, ISIL started regularly to shell the airbase, severing the air bridge that had supplied the city with food and other goods.{{Cite web|url=https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/analysis/2017/09/04/pivotal-point-eastern-syria-assad-breaks-key-islamic-state-siege|title=Pivotal point in eastern Syria as Assad breaks key Islamic State siege|date=4 September 2017|website=The New Humanitarian}}

In early November 2015, a new ISIL attack on the airbase was repelled.{{Citation needed|date=November 2020}}

{{Main|Deir ez-Zor offensive (2016)|September 2016 Deir ez-Zor air raid}}

On 16 January 2016, ISIL launched an offensive on Deir ez-Zor. Several assaults were conducted during the day, which included six ISIL suicide bombers in attempts to break into military positions.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKCN0UU0TM|title=Islamic State kills dozens in Syria's Deir al-Zor city|date=17 January 2016|newspaper=Reuters}} After a few days of heavy fighting, ISIL overran the Baghiliya and Ayyash neighborhoods,{{citation needed|date=November 2019}} after which pro-government fighters and their families were among those targeted in the seized areas. The Syrian government and state media said that 250–300 people were killed, including some by beheading; the British-based SOHR had differing numbers, reporting 135 fatalities,{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35337440#|title=Syria conflict: Conflicting accounts of Deir al-Zour attack|work=BBC News|date=17 January 2016 |access-date=7 February 2016}} of which 85 were civilians and 50 soldiers.{{cite news|title = Deir Ezzor: Hundreds may be dead after ISIS abductions - CNN.com|url = http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/18/middleeast/syria-deir-ezzor-isis/index.html|website = CNN|access-date = 19 January 2016}} {{anchor|Ayyash}}ISIL also captured an Army weapons depot and seized tanks.{{cite news|url=https://in.reuters.com/article/mideast-crisis-syria-idINKCN0UU0TO |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160119100013/http://in.reuters.com/article/mideast-crisis-syria-idINKCN0UU0TO |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 January 2016 |title=Islamic State kills dozens in Syria's Deir al-Zor city – monitor and a source |work=Reuters |date=16 January 2016 |access-date=7 February 2016}} SOHR added that ISIL kidnapped about 400 civilians from families of pro-government fighters. Subsequently, ISIL forces captured areas south and west of Baghiliya.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/19/world/middleeast/isis-islamic-state-eastern-syria.html|title=ISIS Captures Government-Held Ground in Eastern Syria|date=19 January 2016|work=The New York Times}} Overall, according to SOHR, about 440 people were killed in the five-day ISIL offensive, including: 200 soldiers, 110 ISIL fighters and 127 civilians. 30 of the ISIL militants were suicide-bombers, while 85 civilians and 48 soldiers were executed by ISIL. 42 civilians died in government air-strikes and shelling.

In mid-March 2016, the Army launched an attack toward the Thayyem Oil Fields, south of Deir ez-Zor. On the first day of their assault, government forces said they had captured Tharda Mountain.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-jabal-thardeh-advances-thayyem-oil-fields-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian Army liberates Jabal Thardeh and advances to Thayyem Oil Fields in Deir Ezzor|first=Leith|last=Fadel|website=Al-Masdar|date=15 March 2016|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921202457/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-jabal-thardeh-advances-thayyem-oil-fields-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} After four days of fighting, the government said it had managed to capture the oil fields.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-thayyem-oil-fields-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian Army liberates the Thayyem Oil Fields in Deir Ezzor|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=19 March 2016|website=Al-Masdar|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921195420/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-thayyem-oil-fields-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}}

Between April and May 2016, back-and-forth fighting took place as ISIL attempted to advance against government troops in the Industrial and al-Sina'ah districts of Deir ez-Zor city. The Army said that it eventually managed to retain its positions.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-turns-tables-isis-deir-ezzor-map-update/|title=Syrian Army turns the tables on ISIS in Deir Ezzor – Map update|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=3 May 2016|website=Al-Masdar|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=4 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180804081318/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-turns-tables-isis-deir-ezzor-map-update/|url-status=dead}}

In June 2016, Hezbollah sent elite reinforcements to help protect the provincial capital of Deir ez-Zor. Later on the same month, the Thayyem Oil Fields were once again under ISIL control and the militants were positioned alongside the government-held Tharda Mountain. Late that month, a two-day long ISIL attack on the mountain was repelled, according to pro-government sources.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-suffers-20-casualties-failed-deir-ezzor-offensive/|title=ISIS suffers over 20 casualties in failed Deir Ezzor offensive|first=Leith|last=Fadel|website=Al-Masdar|date=22 June 2016|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921174130/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-suffers-20-casualties-failed-deir-ezzor-offensive/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-jabal-thardeh-deir-ezzor-failed-isis-offensive/|title=Syrian Army liberates Jabal Thardeh in Deir Ezzor after failed ISIS offensive|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 June 2016|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921150354/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-jabal-thardeh-deir-ezzor-failed-isis-offensive/|url-status=dead}} In July 2016, pro-government sources said that heavy Russian air-strikes against ISIL managed to relieve the pressure on Syrian Army troops stationed on the mountain.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-jets-pulverize-isis-positions-inside-deir-ezzor/|title=Russian jets pulverize ISIS positions inside Deir Ezzor|first=Leith|last=Fadel|website=Al-Masdar|date=7 December 2016|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921184421/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-jets-pulverize-isis-positions-inside-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-airstrikes-crush-isils-hopes-southwest-deir-ezzor/|title=Russian airstrikes crush ISIL's hopes in southwest Deir Ezzor|first=Leith|last=Fadel|website=Al-Masdar|date=25 July 2016|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921172617/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-airstrikes-crush-isils-hopes-southwest-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}}

On 17 September 2016, a series of 37 U.S.-led Coalition airstrikes near the Deir ez-Zor Airport,{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/17/middleeast/syria-claims-coalition-airstrike-hit-regime-forces/index.html|title=Russia: Coalition strike kills Syrian forces|author1=Steve Almasy |author2=Barbara Starr |author3=Richard Roth|date=17 September 2016|publisher=CNN|access-date=18 September 2016}} lasting from 3:55 to 4:56 p.m. (Damascus time),{{cite web|url=http://www.centcom.mil/Portals/6/media/REDACTED_FINAL_XSUM_Memorandum__29_Nov_16___CLEAR.pdf|title=Memorandum for USAFCENT/CC|author= Richard Coe |display-authors=etal |date=2 November 2016}} killed 90 Syrian Army soldiers and wounded 110 more. The attack triggered "a diplomatic firestorm" with Russia calling a (then rare) emergency United Nations Security Council meeting{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/18/middleeast/syria-claims-coalition-airstrike-hit-regime-forces/|title=Syria ceasefire under threat after US-led strikes kill regime troops, Russia says|work=CNN|date=18 September 2016|access-date=7 October 2016}} as well as leading to the Syrian government calling off a nationwide ceasefire that had been the result of months of intense diplomatic efforts by the U.S. and Russian governments.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-command-declares-ceasefire/|title=[Breaking] Syrian Army command declares ceasefire over|work=Al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=19 September 2016|access-date=7 October 2016|archive-date=13 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113081127/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-command-declares-ceasefire/|url-status=dead}} The Syrian Army positions that were struck were on the Tharda Mountain and at a nearby artillery base.{{cite web|url=http://www.newsandsentinel.com/page/content.detail/id/1330976/Syrian-truce-receives-new-blows-with-airstrikes--shelling.html?isap=1&nav=5074|title=News, Sports, Jobs – News and Sentinel|website=www.newsandsentinel.com}} The airstrikes led to ISIL capturing the Tharda Mountain.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-isis-militants-cheer-atop-syrian-soldiers-killed-us-air-strikes/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918221219/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-isis-militants-cheer-atop-syrian-soldiers-killed-us-air-strikes/|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 September 2016|title=Video: ISIS militants cheer atop Syrian soldiers killed by US air strikes|first=Izat|last=Charkatli|date=18 September 2016|work=almasdarnews.com|access-date=19 September 2016}} Initially, the US Armed Forces did not outright admit that Coalition planes hit Syrian troops,{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/sep/17/russia-says-us-led-airstrikes-hit-syrian-troops-killing-62-and-wounding-dozens|title=UN security council to hold emergency meeting on US air strikes in Syria|first1=Alan|last1=Yuhas|last2=agencies|date=17 September 2016|access-date=18 September 2016|newspaper=The Guardian}} but later the Coalition admitted their planes and drones carried out the attack. The US stated that they halted the strikes as soon as they became aware of the Syrian Army's presence and regretted the unintentional loss of life.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-37398721|title=Syria conflict: US air strikes 'kill dozens of government troops'|work=BBC News|date=18 September 2016|access-date=18 September 2016}}{{cite news|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/09/18/did-the-u-s-just-slaughter-syrian-troops.html|title=U.S. Admits It Bombed Syrian Troops|first=Nancy A.|last=Youssef|date=18 September 2016|work=thedailybeast.com|access-date=19 September 2016}}

{{Main|Deir ez-Zor offensive (January–February 2017)}}

In mid-January 2017, a new ISIL offensive was launched with the aim to cut the road between Deir ez-Zor Airport and the city.{{cite news|url=http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/deadly-islamic-state-assault-east-syria-city-leaves-30-dead-935052743|title=Islamic State assault on east Syria city of Deir Ezzor leaves 30 dead|publisher=Middle East Eye|date=14 January 2017|access-date=16 January 2017}} After two days of fighting, ISIL succeeded in cutting the road linking the air base to the city,{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/01/16/syrian-rebels-agree-attend-russia-brokered-peace-talks/|title=Islamic State launches major offensive to take Syrian city|newspaper=The Telegraph|author=Josie Ensor|date=16 January 2017|access-date=16 January 2017}} leaving the government enclave split in two.{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/islamic-state-gains-in-syria-province-1484676322|title=Islamic State Gains in Remote Syria Outpost|first1=Noam|last1=Raydan|first2=Nour|last2=Alakraa|date=17 January 2017|newspaper=Wall Street Journal}} During their advances, ISIL captured multiple positions, including the Sakan al-Jahiziya neighborhood on the highway between the city and Damascus,{{cite news|url=http://aranews.net/2017/01/isis-militants-capture-new-areas-deir-ez-zor-amidst-syrian-army-retreat/|title=ISIS captures new areas in Deir ez-Zor amidst Syrian Army retreat|publisher=ARA News|date=14 January 2017|access-date=16 January 2017|archive-date=17 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170117125740/http://aranews.net/2017/01/isis-militants-capture-new-areas-deir-ez-zor-amidst-syrian-army-retreat/|url-status=dead}} and a strategic mountain overlooking the city.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/59122/|title=The "Islamic State" organization controls a mountain overlooks Deir Ezzor city and gets closer to cutting its airbase's supply • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=15 January 2017}} Back-and-forth fighting continued for one month with the Army unsuccessfully attempting to reopen the supply line between the airport and the city. The clashes left more than 470 dead, including: 241 ISIL militants, 127 soldiers and 105 civilians.{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2017/02/14/أكثر-من-470-مدني-وعنصر-استشهدوا-وقتلوا-خل/|title=أكثر من 470 مدني وعنصر استشهدوا وقتلوا خلال أول شهر من الهجوم الأعنف على دير الزور وقوات النظام تفشل في التقدم وفك الحصارين عنها}}

As the siege of Deir ez-Zor intensified, fears rose that ISIL would commit a large massacre if it ever captured the city.{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2017/02/syria-deir-ezzor-islamic-state-fighting.html|title=Residents of Syria's Deir ez-Zor fear IS massacre|date=24 February 2017}} ISIL attempts to breach the Army defenses of the Deir ez-Zor Airport continued well into March 2017.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamic-state-launches-fresh-suicidal-attacks-deir-ezzor-airbase-map-update/|title=Islamic State launches fresh suicidal attacks on Deir Ezzor Airbase – Map update|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=16 March 2017|access-date=16 March 2017|archive-date=25 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181225022945/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamic-state-launches-fresh-suicidal-attacks-deir-ezzor-airbase-map-update/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-suffers-heavy-losses-failed-deir-ezzor-offensive-2/|title=ISIS suffers heavy losses in failed Deir Ezzor offensive|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=17 March 2017|access-date=18 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921120403/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-suffers-heavy-losses-failed-deir-ezzor-offensive-2/|url-status=dead}} Also, late that month, ISIL conducted a tank assault on the government-held Al-Fourat university, located on the N7 Highway leading to the provincial capital. The same day, ISIL seized a large amount of ammunition and weapons that was intended for the Syrian Army but miss-dropped into ISIL territory by the Russian Air Force.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-isis-attacks-deir-ezzor-university-seizes-syrian-army-weapons-stockpile/|title=VIDEO: ISIS attacks Deir Ezzor university, seizes Syrian Army weapons stockpile|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=25 March 2017|access-date=25 March 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921125151/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-isis-attacks-deir-ezzor-university-seizes-syrian-army-weapons-stockpile/|url-status=dead}}

In early April, the Syrian Army made multiple attempts to reopen the supply line between the city and the airport. The fighting was primarily concentrated on the Cemetery Area.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-inches-lifting-isis-siege-deir-ezzor-airbase-full-report/|title=Syrian Army inches from lifting ISIS siege on Deir Ezzor Airbase – full report|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=5 April 2017|access-date=11 April 2017|archive-date=21 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180821121605/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-inches-lifting-isis-siege-deir-ezzor-airbase-full-report/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-airport-siege-nears-end-syrian-army-troops-liberate-several-points/|title=Deir Ezzor Airport siege nears its end as Syrian Army troops liberate several points|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=6 April 2017|access-date=11 April 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921185944/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-airport-siege-nears-end-syrian-army-troops-liberate-several-points/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-fights-back-isis-deir-ezzor/|title=In Video: Syrian Army fights back ISIS in Deir Ezzor|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=11 April 2017|access-date=11 April 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921161130/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-fights-back-isis-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} Towards the end of May, Army forces were still staving off attacks by ISIL fighters, while 100,000 civilians were surrounded and living without adequate food, services or safety. The UN's World Food Programme, in conjunction with the Syrian government and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, regularly airdropped food and aid to the encircled pockets. Frequent fighting was also taking place in the Cemetery Area.{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/%E2%80%98i-don%E2%80%99t-know-how-we-are-still-alive%E2%80%99-in-deir-e-zor-city-regime-districts-survive-on-airdropped-rations-while-surrounded-by-islamic-state/|title='I don't know how we are still alive': In Deir e-Zor city, government districts survive on airdropped rations while surrounded by Islamic State|website=Syria Direct|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=4 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704173843/http://syriadirect.org/news/%E2%80%98i-don%E2%80%99t-know-how-we-are-still-alive%E2%80%99-in-deir-e-zor-city-regime-districts-survive-on-airdropped-rations-while-surrounded-by-islamic-state|url-status=dead}}

On 3 June, ISIL advanced near Deir ez-Zor.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=67506|title=The "Islamic State" organization advance in the vicinity of Deir Ezzor city and aerial bombardment on the countryside of Homs|website=syriahr.com|date=3 June 2017|access-date=26 June 2017}} Heavy fighting continued the next day for control of two hilltops at the southern entrance to the city.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-deir-ezzor-reaches-tipping-point-isil-breaks-syrian-army-lines/|title=Battle for Deir Ezzor reaches tipping point as ISIL breaks through Syrian Army lines|date=5 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=20 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170620233515/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-deir-ezzor-reaches-tipping-point-isil-breaks-syrian-army-lines/|url-status=dead}} On 5 June, ISIL managed to capture one of the hills, but were forced to withdraw due to heavy airstrikes.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-update-syrian-army-holds-strong-amid-massive-push-isil/|title=Deir Ezzor update: Syrian Army holds strong amid a massive push by ISIL|date=5 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=15 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170615204541/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-update-syrian-army-holds-strong-amid-massive-push-isil/|url-status=dead}} Later that night, a new ISIL attack against the Panorama roundabout was launched that was preceded by a suicide car-bomber. ISIL managed to capture several checkpoints near the roundabout, forcing Army units to withdraw to their second line of defense. ISIL attacks against the two hills also continued, but without any gains.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isils-late-night-assault-endangers-key-deir-ezzor-base/|title=ISIL's late night assault endangers key Deir Ezzor base|date=6 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=15 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170615222412/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isils-late-night-assault-endangers-key-deir-ezzor-base/|url-status=dead}} The following evening, ISIL made another push but were repelled.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-deir-ezzor-reaches-critical-stages-isil-makes-another-push/|title=Battle for Deir Ezzor reaches critical stages as ISIL makes another push|date=7 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=27 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170627202342/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-deir-ezzor-reaches-critical-stages-isil-makes-another-push/|url-status=dead}} Between 9 and 13 June, ISIL conducted waves of attacks on a daily basis, which were ultimately all repelled.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-terrorists-litter-battlefield-deir-ezzor-syrian-army-troops-hold-strong/|title=ISIL terrorists litter battlefield in Deir Ezzor as Syrian Army troops hold strong|date=10 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=16 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170616103558/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-terrorists-litter-battlefield-deir-ezzor-syrian-army-troops-hold-strong/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-isis-throws-military-power-syrian-army-besieged-deir-ezzor/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611165723/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-isis-throws-military-power-syrian-army-besieged-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 June 2017|title=In pictures: ISIS throws all its military power against the Syrian Army in besieged Deir Ezzor|date=11 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-fights-off-second-day-massive-isis-attack-deir-ezzor/|title=VIDEO: Syrian Army fights off second day of massive ISIS attack in Deir Ezzor|date=13 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213015231/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-fights-off-second-day-massive-isis-attack-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-russian-air-force-spoil-isis-plans-overrun-deir-ezzor-city/|title=Syrian Army, Russian Air Force spoil ISIS plans to overrun Deir Ezzor city|date=14 June 2017|website=almasdarnews.com|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=14 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170614190737/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-russian-air-force-spoil-isis-plans-overrun-deir-ezzor-city/|url-status=dead}}

Between 7 and 11 July, a new series of ISIL attacks on Syrian Army positions around the city were repelled.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-takes-huge-hit-deir-ezzor-another-desperate-offensive/|title=ISIL takes a huge hit in Deir Ezzor after another desperate offensive|date=7 July 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814055715/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-takes-huge-hit-deir-ezzor-another-desperate-offensive/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-suffers-heavy-casualties-another-daring-deir-ezzor-offensive/|title=ISIL suffers heavy casualties in another daring Deir Ezzor offensive|date=9 July 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814062913/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-suffers-heavy-casualties-another-daring-deir-ezzor-offensive/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-makes-isis-pay-heavy-price-upholding-deir-ezzor-siege/|title=Syrian Army makes ISIS pay heavy price for upholding Deir Ezzor siege|date=11 July 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814062916/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-makes-isis-pay-heavy-price-upholding-deir-ezzor-siege/|url-status=dead}} One week later, Syrian Army troops themselves conducted attacks against ISIL positions.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-strikes-back-isil-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian Army strikes back against ISIL in Deir Ezzor|date=19 July 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814102105/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-strikes-back-isil-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} At the end of the month, another ISIL attack on Army positions was repelled.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-forces-deliver-powerful-blow-isil-terrorists-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian forces deliver powerful blow to ISIL terrorists in Deir Ezzor|date=28 July 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=24 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170824114757/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-forces-deliver-powerful-blow-isil-terrorists-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} At the start of August, after managing to capture a 280-meter long ditch, the Army managed to impose fire-control over ISIL's supply line leading from Tharda Mountain through the Cemetery Area into ISIL-held suburbs of the city.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-trapped-deir-ezzor-death-zone-syrian-army-cuts-supply-line-map-update/|title=ISIS trapped in Deir Ezzor death zone after Syrian Army cuts jihadist supply line – Map update|date=1 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814062924/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-trapped-deir-ezzor-death-zone-syrian-army-cuts-supply-line-map-update/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-cuts-off-key-isil-supply-line-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian Army cuts off key ISIL supply line in Deir Ezzor|date=3 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814103626/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-cuts-off-key-isil-supply-line-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} This was followed by several new unsuccessful attempts by ISIL to breach Army lines between 6 and 12 August.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-isis-kicks-off-die-offensive-capture-deir-ezzor-city/|title=In pictures: ISIS kicks off do-or-die offensive to capture Deir Ezzor city|date=6 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814065936/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-isis-kicks-off-die-offensive-capture-deir-ezzor-city/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-launches-failed-offensive-deir-ezzor-losing-key-stronghold-east-homs/|title=ISIS launches failed offensive in Deir Ezzor after losing key stronghold in east Homs|date=7 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814064431/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-launches-failed-offensive-deir-ezzor-losing-key-stronghold-east-homs/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-suffers-heavy-casualties-failed-deir-ezzor-assault/|title=ISIL suffers heavy casualties in failed Deir Ezzor assault|date=12 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814062920/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isil-suffers-heavy-casualties-failed-deir-ezzor-assault/|url-status=dead}}

{{Main|Central Syria campaign}}

During May and June 2017, the Syrian Arab Army established control over most of the southern part of Raqqa province, as well as the Eastern Qalamoun Mountains. In mid-July, Syrian forces launched a campaign in Central Syria targeting ISIL strongholds in the provinces of Homs and Hama. On 27 August, the Army launched a major offensive along the Sukhnah-Deir ez-Zor highway.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/new-offensive-puts-syrian-army-66km-away-lifting-siege-deir-ezzor/|title=New offensive puts the Syrian Army 66km away from lifting the siege on Deir Ezzor|date=29 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=3 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903191159/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/new-offensive-puts-syrian-army-66km-away-lifting-siege-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} The next day, the Army, with the help of Russian air strikes, came within 66 kilometers of the surrounded city. In the morning of 29 August, the Syrian forces launched a surprise attack in the western part of Deir ez-Zor, targeting ISIL's positions in the strategic Panorama area.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-surprise-assault-deir-ezzor-liberates-large-area/|title=Syrian Army launches surprise assault in Deir Ezzor, liberates large area|date=29 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=3 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903064726/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-surprise-assault-deir-ezzor-liberates-large-area/|url-status=dead}} On 31 August, the Syrian Arab Army established full control over the strategic mountain of Bishiri, west of Deir ez-Zor city. The offensive was accompanied by Russian air strikes on ISIL positions.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-takes-strategic-mountain-en-route-deir-ezzor/|title=Syrian Army takes over strategic mountain en route to Deir Ezzor|date=31 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=4 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904174408/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-takes-strategic-mountain-en-route-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} Syrian and Russian aviation carried out a joint air attack on an ISIL command center in the al-Rashdiyah district of Deir ez-Zor.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-airpower-flattens-isis-command-base-deir-ezzor/|title=VIDEO: Syrian airpower flattens ISIS command base in Deir Ezzor|date=31 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=3 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903151458/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-airpower-flattens-isis-command-base-deir-ezzor/|url-status=dead}} By 31 August, the Syrian Army, headed by elite Tiger Forces, had advanced to within 50 kilometers of Deir ez-Zor from Sukhna in the east.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-forces-within-50-km-deir-ezzor-city/|title=BREAKING: Syrian forces within 50 km of Deir Ezzor city|date=31 August 2017|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=11 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911173629/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-forces-within-50-km-deir-ezzor-city/|url-status=dead}}

During the first days of September 2017, the Syrian Army and its allies had reached the 137th Brigade base and were battling to reach the troops besieged inside.{{cite news|url=https://www.geo.tv/latest/156517-syria-army-nears-regime-enclave-besieged-by-is|title=Syria army nears city besieged by Daesh|work=Agence-France Presse|publisher=Geo TV}} It was later reported that they had come within {{convert|3|km|mi}} of reaching the nearest Army positions around the base.{{cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-now-3-km-ending-deir-ezzor-siege/|title=BREAKING: Syrian Army now 3 km from ending Deir Ezzor siege|work=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 September 2017|archive-date=4 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904174640/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-now-3-km-ending-deir-ezzor-siege/|url-status=dead}} The siege was broken on 5 September 2017, at around 14:00 local time, when government forces met with elements of the 137th Brigade.{{Cite web|url=https://www.teletrader.com/syrian-army-breaks-three-year-siege-of-deir-ez-zor/news/details/40217428|title=Syrian army breaks three-year siege of Deir ez-Zor|website=www.teletrader.com}} The Deir ez-Zor airport continued to be besieged until it was relieved four days later, on 9 September.{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKCN1BK0IL|title=Syrian army, allies reach airbase besieged by Islamic State in eastern Syria: commander|newspaper=Reuters|date=9 September 2017|via=www.reuters.com}}

The breaking of the ISIL siege of the city was met with scenes of celebration as civilians exchanged congratulations and fired celebratory gunshots into the air. According to one resident, people would "prefer the government over Daesh" in the hopes that breaking of the siege could mean the gradual return of life to Deir ez-Zor, and along with it basic supplies.{{Cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/regime-%E2%80%98breaks%E2%80%99-three-year-islamic-state-siege-of-deir-e-zor-city-saa-source/|title=Regime 'breaks' three-year Islamic State siege of Deir e-Zor city: SAA source|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912192201/http://syriadirect.org/news/regime-%E2%80%98breaks%E2%80%99-three-year-islamic-state-siege-of-deir-e-zor-city-saa-source/|url-status=dead}}

{{Main|Deir ez-Zor offensive (September–November 2017)|Eastern Syria campaign (September–December 2017)}}

{{See also|Deir ez-Zor campaign (2017–2019)}}

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|caption2= The destroyed city of Deir Ez-Zor in 2018

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On 14 September 2017, the Syrian Army launched an offensive to recapture the remaining ISIL-held districts of Deir ez-Zor city, reportedly capturing the district of Al-Baghiliyah.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-important-deir-ezzor-district-euphrates-river-valley/|title=Syrian Army liberates important Deir Ezzor district in Euphrates River Valley|date=14 September 2017|work=AMN – Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=16 September 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921123509/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-liberates-important-deir-ezzor-district-euphrates-river-valley/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-update-syrian-army-advances-along-western-bank-euphrates-river/|title=Deir Ezzor update: Syrian Army advances along western bank of Euphrates River|date=14 September 2017|work=AMN – Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=16 September 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=13 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181213015629/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/deir-ezzor-update-syrian-army-advances-along-western-bank-euphrates-river/|url-status=dead}} On 17 October, the Syrian Army said it had secured a perimeter surrounding the ISIL-controlled half of the city, encircling the remaining ISIL forces in eastern Deir ez-Zor.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/major-development-syrian-army-liberates-three-districts-deir-ezzor-city/|title=Syrian Army liberates three districts in Deir Ezzor City|work=Al-Masdar news|date=17 October 2017|access-date=19 October 2017|archive-date=21 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921181355/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/major-development-syrian-army-liberates-three-districts-deir-ezzor-city/|url-status=dead}} Subsequently, the Syrian Army launched an operation to recapture the entire city from ISIL.{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/73613/breaking-of-islamic-state-siege-on-deir-al-zour-supports-russian-and-iranian-strategic-objectives-in-eastern-syria|title=Breaking of Islamic State siege on Deir al-Zour supports Russian and Iranian strategic objectives in eastern Syria|work=Janes 360|access-date=7 September 2017}} On 3 November 2017, the Syrian Army fully recaptured Deir ez-Zor city and its surroundings from ISIL.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/02/deir-ez-zor-cleared-of-last-islamic-state-fighters-isis|title=Isis dealt twin blows with loss of Deir ez-Zor and key Iraq border post|publisher=TheGuardian|date=3 November 2017|access-date=5 November 2017}} On 17 November, Syrian Government forces captured Hawijat Kati Island, to the north of Deir ez-Zor city, fully bringing the rest of Deir ez-Zor and its outskirts under their control.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-mass-surrenders-large-deir-ezzor-island-250-terrorists-captured/|title=ISIS mass surrenders large Deir Ezzor island, 250+ terrorists captured|work=AMN News|date=17 November 2017|access-date=17 November 2017|archive-date=19 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190519065007/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-mass-surrenders-large-deir-ezzor-island-250-terrorists-captured/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/78845/|title=After an undisclosed agreement, the government forces control Hwyjet Katea' and tens of ISIS members surrender, the fate of about 150 civilians in it is unknown • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=17 November 2017}}

During the siege, ISIL cut off the power supply to the city.{{Cite magazine|url=https://time.com/3916518/isis-syria-photographs/|title=Besieged by ISIS: Photographs From Inside the Syrian City of Deir ez-Zor|magazine=Time|author=Conal Urquhart|date=11 June 2015}} In February 2016, around 200,000 people resided in Deir ez-Zor. The siege resulted in widespread malnutrition and starvation of the civilians in the city.{{cite web|url=http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/under-russian-syria-and-coalition-bombs-life-deir-ezzour-goes-bad-worse-1457841367|title=Syria's forgotten war: The silent slaughter of Deir Ezzor|work=Middle East Eye|date=18 February 2016}} In response, the United Nations' World Food Programme has conducted 177 airdrops of food and other humanitarian aid to the besieged districts of the city since April 2016. 110,000–120,000 civilians remained as of January 2017, when an ISIL offensive on the airport forced the airdrops to be suspended.{{cite web|url=https://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=55987|title=Syria: Heavy fighting forces UN food relief agency to suspend airdrops in Deir ez-Zor|work=United Nations|date=17 January 2017}} In November 2017, the UN estimated that at the start of the siege, around 200,000 civilians were besieged in the Syrian Government-held districts of Deir ez-Zor, which decreased to 90,000 near the end of the siege, with most of those civilians escaping or being smuggled out of the city during ISIL's siege.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/03/world/middleeast/syria-isis-deir-al-zour.html|title=ISIS, Squeezed on Two Sides, Loses Syrian City and Border Crossing|author=Anne Barnard and Margaret Coker|work=The New York Times|date=3 November 2017|access-date=5 November 2017}}

As a result of the cut in electricity, only one electric generator-powered water pump was available, and the water was not treated. The Syrian Arab Red Crescent has installed several water tanks in response.

Between February 2015 and March 2016, more than 63 civilians were killed by ISIL bombardment on government-held neighbourhoods in Deir ez-Zor, in addition to 32 civilians who died of malnutrition and related diseases.{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2016/05/deir-ez-zor-humanitarian-catastrophe-aid-food-assistance.html|title=After Madaya, Deir ez-Zor now faces humanitarian catastrophe|work=Al-Monitor|author=Kamal Sheikho|date=6 May 2016}} Human rights violations have been documented by investigative journalists including Rukaia Al-abadi.{{Cite web |title=Rukaia Al-abadi - IWMF |url=https://www.iwmf.org/community/rukaia-al-abadi/ |access-date=2025-03-01 |website=www.iwmf.org |language=en}}

{{Portal|Asia}}

{{Columns-list|colwidth=30em|

• Battle of Damascus (2012)
• Battle of Aleppo (2012–2016)
• Siege of Nubl and al-Zahraa
• Deir ez-Zor clashes
• 2014 Eastern Syria offensive
• Siege of al-Fu'ah and Kafriya
• Palmyra offensive (May 2015)
• Palmyra offensive (March 2016)
• Palmyra offensive (December 2016)
• Palmyra offensive (2017)
• Siege of Kobanî
• Raqqa campaign (2016–2017)

}}

{{Notelist}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{Deir ez-Zor}}

{{Syrian Civil War}}

{{Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant}}

{{coord missing|Syria}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Deir ez-Zor 2014-2017}}

Category:Battles of the Syrian civil war in 2014

Category:Battles of the Syrian civil war in 2015

Category:Battles of the Syrian civil war in 2016

Category:Battles of the Syrian civil war in 2017

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Syrian government

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant