US-led Coalition in Iraq & Syria

Civilians in the ruins of Mosul city. (Maranie R. Staab)

Belligerent
US-led Coalition
Country
Iraq
Syria
start date
end date
Civilian Harm Status
Belligerent Assessment
Declassified Documents
Infrastructure

Incident Code

CS1833

Incident date

November 11–12, 2018

Location

الكشمة, Al Kashma, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.6205556, 40.9386111 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Between 10 and as many as 60 civilians died in an alleged Coalition airstrike on Al Kashma, according to local media. Airstrikes were carried out in Al Shaafa and Al Kashma around the same time, and most sources reported on a combined number of civilian casualties as a result of airstrikes in both places. The airstrikes were conducted between the evening of November 11th and November 12th.

On November 11th, 10 civilians were reported to have died in an alleged Coalition airstrike. Both ISIS and medical sources reported to local media that 20 civilians died as a result of the strikes, most of whom were reported as women and children.

An individual source known as @saleemalsaied reported in a tweet that as many as 50 civilians died in the attacks. And Qasioun News referred to a Sana News report that put the total toll of civilians that either died or were injured as a result of airstrikes on these locations at 60 civilian deaths.

UNICEF later issued a statement condemning the high number of deaths being reported from the Hajin pocket. “UNICEF is alarmed by recent reports of up to 30 children who have been killed in recent violence in Al Shafa village, in eastern Syria. These reported killings demonstrate that the war on children is far from over in Syria…. UNICEF calls on warring parties to protect all children – no matter where they are in Syria and no matter whose control they live under.”

The incident occured during the night.

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    10 – 60
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (18) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (1) [ collapse]

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 10th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 10 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted 23 strikes consisting of 36 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 23 strikes destroyed two command and control centers, one IED facility, one logistic facility, five buildings, four tunnels, two staging areas, six supply routes, one fighting position and one UAS launch site.
For November 11th: "On Nov. 11, 2018 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 23 military strikes consisting of 34 engagements against ISIS targets. Near Hajin, 23 strikes engaged 16 tactical units and destroyed nine buildings, two weapons caches, four tunnels, two fighting positions, two supply routes, two command and control centers, one piece of heavy equipment, and one visual observation post."
For November 12th: "On Nov. 12 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 17 strikes consisting of 38 engagements against ISIS targets. Near Hajin, 17 strikes engaged 18 tactical units and destroyed 10 buildings, one weapons cache, one tunnel, one command and control center, and two supply routes."

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

From Nov 7th – 13th, France reports that the three CAESAR guns carried out 49 ‘fire’ missions from the Iraqi territory – 35 illumination, 14 destruction. Aircraft conducted 18 sorties and 1 strike in support of forces on the ground in Syria.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent, avec un renforcement à la frontière irako-syrienne. Si Daech a perdu ses capacités militaires, l’organisation terroriste conserve une capacité de nuisance, notamment dans la région du plateau d’Hawija. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué de manière significative. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Les trois canons CAESAR ont réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 49 missions de tir (35 éclairement, 14 destruction – bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2101 missions de tirs. Les Task Forces Monsabert et Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation La TF Monsabert poursuit sa mission d’instruction de la 6ème division irakienne. Elle conseille l’état-major de cette division et, ponctuellement, les brigades qui lui sont subordonnées. Ainsi, du 5 au 11 novembre, un groupe d’instructeurs s’est rendu au poste de commandement de la 24ème brigade pour former pour former 20 stagiaires irakiens aux techniques du combat urbain. La TF Narvik forme et conseille les membres de l’Iraki Counter Terrorism Service (ICTS). Elle dispense actuellement des instructions au combat débarqué et au recueil de renseignement. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Au sein de la coalition, les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Émirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech. Cette semaine, les aéronefs de l’opération Chammal ont réalisé 18 sorties aériennes (bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus) et conduit 1 frappe, en appui des FDS en Syrie. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8636 sorties / 1479 frappes / 2278 objectifs neutralises.’

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 7th-13th, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16s supported ground troops during 8 missions in the fight against ISIS. Weapons were deployed in 3 missions near Deir Ezzor governorate, Syria. Targets were ISIS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 7 t/m 13 November laat MinDef weten Nederlandse F-16’s te hebben ingezet ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Tijdens 8 missies werden 3 wapens ingezet boven Deir al Zour, Syrie. IS Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    10 – 60
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (18) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1832

Incident date

November 11, 2018

Location

الشعفة, Al Sha'afa, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.57888, 40.93441 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Between 20 and as many as 60 non-combatants died in an alleged Coalition airstrike on Al Sha’afa, according to local media. A number of sources including Baladi News and the Syrian Unified Observatory, reported that the airstrikes hit both the towns of Al Sha’afa and Al Kashma, killing mostly civilians including women and children.

According to Sana News at least 60 civilians were either dead or injured as a result of the alleged Coalition airstrike on Al Sha’afa.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that it monitored the recovery of the bodies of at least 28 people after the airstrike on Al Sha’afa including 22 ISIS family members. It said that among the victims were eight “citizen women” and nine children under the age of eighteen. The Observatory later added that the toll of civilian casualties had risen to 32 civilians from the families of ISIS, including 13 children under the age of 18, and 12 women, while an additional 6 casualties were found to be IS members. Dozens of civilians were reportedly injured.

UNICEF published a statement in response expressing that “UNICEF is alarmed by recent reports of up to 30 children who have been killed in recent violence in Al Sha’afa village, in eastern Syria.”

On March 10, 2022 in the CJTF-OIR Civilian Casualty Report, the Coalition reported this incident to be “non-credible”, stating that “After review of all available evidence it was determined that more likely than not civilian casualties did not occur as a result of a Coalition strike.”

The local time of the incident is unknown.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    20 – 60
  • (9–13 children8–12 women)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (18) [ collapse]

Geolocation notes

Coordinates released by the Coalition place the event at 34.57888, 40.9344

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Open incident
  • Stated location
    near al Shaafa, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    1 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU7742928044
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Mar 10, 2022
  • Nov. 11, 2018, near al Shaafa, Syria, via Airwars report. After review of all available evidence it was determined that more likely than not civilian casualties did not occur as a result of a Coalition strike. 3225/CS1832 37SFU7742928044

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 11th, the Coalition publicly reported: "On Nov. 11, 2018 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 23 military strikes consisting of 34 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 23 strikes engaged 16 tactical units and destroyed nine buildings, two weapons caches, four tunnels, two fighting positions, two supply routes, two command and control centers, one piece of heavy equipment, and one visual observation post."

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

From Nov 7th – 13th, France reports that the three CAESAR guns carried out 49 ‘fire’ missions from the Iraqi territory – 35 illumination, 14 destruction. Aircraft conducted 18 sorties and 1 strike in support of forces on the ground in Syria.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent, avec un renforcement à la frontière irako-syrienne. Si Daech a perdu ses capacités militaires, l’organisation terroriste conserve une capacité de nuisance, notamment dans la région du plateau d’Hawija. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué de manière significative. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Les trois canons CAESAR ont réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 49 missions de tir (35 éclairement, 14 destruction – bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2101 missions de tirs. Les Task Forces Monsabert et Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation La TF Monsabert poursuit sa mission d’instruction de la 6ème division irakienne. Elle conseille l’état-major de cette division et, ponctuellement, les brigades qui lui sont subordonnées. Ainsi, du 5 au 11 novembre, un groupe d’instructeurs s’est rendu au poste de commandement de la 24ème brigade pour former pour former 20 stagiaires irakiens aux techniques du combat urbain. La TF Narvik forme et conseille les membres de l’Iraki Counter Terrorism Service (ICTS). Elle dispense actuellement des instructions au combat débarqué et au recueil de renseignement. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Au sein de la coalition, les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Émirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech. Cette semaine, les aéronefs de l’opération Chammal ont réalisé 18 sorties aériennes (bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus) et conduit 1 frappe, en appui des FDS en Syrie. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8636 sorties / 1479 frappes / 2278 objectifs neutralises.’

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 7th-13th, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16s supported ground troops during 8 missions in the fight against ISIS. Weapons were deployed in 3 missions near Deir Ezzor governorate, Syria. Targets were ISIS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 7 t/m 13 November laat MinDef weten Nederlandse F-16’s te hebben ingezet ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Tijdens 8 missies werden 3 wapens ingezet boven Deir al Zour, Syrie. IS Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    20 – 60
  • (9–13 children8–12 women)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (18) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1831

Incident date

November 11, 2018

Location

هجين, Hajin, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.6897222, 40.83 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Between five and 12 civilians including women and children died in an alleged Coalition airstrike on Hajin, according to local media.

Baladi News reported on five civilian deaths, while most other sources reported on the deaths of seven civilians.

There were various reports on the gender and age of the victims. Some sources reported that among the victims were five females of whom three were children – whereas others reported on four child deaths. Baladi reported on two women and three children slain.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights put the death toll higher at 12 civilians, including four female children and two women, most of whom were reported to be IDPs from Khan Sheikhoun city in Idlib governorate.

The Euphrates Exiles Facebook page reported that all victims were ISIS family members.

In its October 2020 monthly civilian casualty review, the US-led Coalition classed this event as ‘non credible’, asserting that “This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility.”

The incident occured during the night.

The victims were named as:

Family members (4)

Age unknown female Shaima or Taima: the wife of Shafiq Salim Taha who was also killed. killed

Family members (2)

The victims were named as:

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    5 – 12
  • (3–4 children1–2 women)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (17) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (7) [ collapse]

  • Victims of an alleged Coalition airstrike in Hajin on November 11th 2018 according to a tweet from Abdul Qafoor al Diyab on November 12th 2018. On the left are Zahraa and Sham Abdul Qader al Sahh.
  • According to Al Latamna Youth Gathering's Facebook page, pictured is Ahmad Abdel Qader al Sahh - victim of an alleged Coalition airstrike in Hajin on November 11th, 2018.
  • Images of two children reported killed, with their parents, in an alleged US-led Coalition airstrike on Hajin in Deir Ezzor countryside on November 11th, 2018. (via Abdul Qafoor al Diyab)
  • Image of one of the children reported killed as a result of alleged US-led Coalition airstrike on Hajin in Deir Ezzor countryside on November 11th, 2018. (via Abdul Qafoor al Diyab)
  • Destruction resulting from an alleged US-led Coalition airstrike on Hajin in Deir Ezzor on November 11th, 2018. (via Euphrates Post).
  • Aftermath of an alleged US-led Coalition airstrike on Hajin in Deir Ezzor on November 11th, 2018. (via Euphrates Post).
  • Aftermath of an alleged US-led Coalition airstrike on Hajin in Deir Ezzor on November 11th, 2018. (via Euphrates Post).

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Non credible / Unsubstantiated
    Insufficient information to assess that, more likely than not, a Coalition strike resulted in civilian casualties.
  • Reason for non-credible assessment
    Insufficient information on the time and location
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    Hajin, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    100 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU676401
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 29, 2020
  • 8. Nov. 11, 2018, Hajin, Syria, via Airwars report. This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility. 3224/CS1831 37SFU676401

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 10th-11th, the Coalition publicly reported: "On Nov. 10 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted 23 strikes consisting of 36 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 23 strikes destroyed two command and control centers, one IED facility, one logistic facility, five buildings, four tunnels, two staging areas, six supply routes, one fighting position and one UAS launch site."

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

From Nov 7th – 13th, France reports that the three CAESAR guns carried out 49 ‘fire’ missions from the Iraqi territory – 35 illumination, 14 destruction. Aircraft conducted 18 sorties and 1 strike in support of forces on the ground in Syria.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent, avec un renforcement à la frontière irako-syrienne. Si Daech a perdu ses capacités militaires, l’organisation terroriste conserve une capacité de nuisance, notamment dans la région du plateau d’Hawija. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué de manière significative. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Les trois canons CAESAR ont réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 49 missions de tir (35 éclairement, 14 destruction – bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2101 missions de tirs. Les Task Forces Monsabert et Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation La TF Monsabert poursuit sa mission d’instruction de la 6ème division irakienne. Elle conseille l’état-major de cette division et, ponctuellement, les brigades qui lui sont subordonnées. Ainsi, du 5 au 11 novembre, un groupe d’instructeurs s’est rendu au poste de commandement de la 24ème brigade pour former pour former 20 stagiaires irakiens aux techniques du combat urbain. La TF Narvik forme et conseille les membres de l’Iraki Counter Terrorism Service (ICTS). Elle dispense actuellement des instructions au combat débarqué et au recueil de renseignement. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Au sein de la coalition, les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Émirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech. Cette semaine, les aéronefs de l’opération Chammal ont réalisé 18 sorties aériennes (bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus) et conduit 1 frappe, en appui des FDS en Syrie. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8636 sorties / 1479 frappes / 2278 objectifs neutralises.’

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 7th-13th, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16s supported ground troops during 8 missions in the fight against ISIS. Weapons were deployed in 3 missions near Deir Ezzor governorate, Syria. Targets were ISIS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 7 t/m 13 November laat MinDef weten Nederlandse F-16’s te hebben ingezet ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Tijdens 8 missies werden 3 wapens ingezet boven Deir al Zour, Syrie. IS Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    5 – 12
  • (3–4 children1–2 women)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (17) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1834

Incident date

November 13, 2018

Location

الكشمة و الشعفة, Al Kashma and Al Sha'afa, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.595168, 40.937231 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Alleged Coalition airstrikes targeted Al Kashma and Al Sha’afa in what was described as “a new massacre of dozens of civilians” according to local media. Between 20 and 50 civilians were reported to have died as a result of “25 raids” on both locations on November 13th. According to Orient News, both Al Kashma and Al Sha’afa were under IS control at the time but included a large number of displaced families.

There were varying reports on the number of civilians; the official Al Sha’afa Facebook page claimed all casualties resulting these strikes were civilian, whereas The Euphrates Exiles Facebook claimed all casualties were ISIS members and their families.

The majority of sources reported on 35 civilian fatalities, of whom most were reported to be women and children.

The death toll was estimated to be higher by @Kalmuqdad Qasioun, placing it at 50 civilian deaths.

According to Jisr TV, “British General Christopher Ghika, deputy commander of the Joint Task Force of the US-led International Alliance Against State Regime, said they were investigating allegations of civilian deaths in raids by the Syrian alliance in Deir al-Zour.” 

The statement was made in video conference at the Pentagon, which reviewed operations against state organization in Syria and Iraq on Tuesday. According to the official transcript, when asked about 20 civilian deaths General Ghika commented: “I think that we have to be particularly aware of people who put stories like this into the information space, knowing that they’re not true. And then we all run off on them. So these are unsubstantiated at this stage. We will investigate them, as we investigate every allegation of civilian casualties.”

In its October 2020 monthly civilian casualty review, the US-led Coalition classed this event as ‘non credible’, asserting that “This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility.”

The local time of the incident is unknown.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Contested strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    20 – 50
  • Civilians reported injured
    12–24
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (26) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (1) [ collapse]

  • According to the Euphrates Exiles Facebook page this banner reads: while waiting for big ground operations to begin, SDF, coalition and the regime are together carrying out strikes on the last pocket of IS in the countryside of Deir Ezzor.

Geolocation notes (1) [ collapse]

Reports of the incident mention multiple strikes on the village of Al Kashma (الكشمة) and Al Sha’afa (الشعفة). Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further. The generic coordinates for a point between these two locations are: 34.595168, 40.937231.

  • Reports of the incident mention multiple strikes on the village of Al Kashma (الكشمة) and Al Sha’afa (الشعفة).

    Imagery:
    Google Earth

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Non credible / Unsubstantiated
    Insufficient information to assess that, more likely than not, a Coalition strike resulted in civilian casualties.
  • Reason for non-credible assessment
    Insufficient information on the time and location, Insufficient evidence of civilian harm
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    al Kashma and Al Shaafa, Syria
    Nearest population center

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 29, 2020
  • 7. Nov. 10, 2018, al Kashma and Al Shaafa, Syria, via Airwars report. This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility. 3228/CS1834 No grid location specified

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 13th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 13 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 24 strikes consisting of 45 engagements against an ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 24 strikes engaged two tactical units and destroyed three buildings, five supply routes, six weapons caches, one tunnel, one fighting position, two command and control centers, three staging areas, and two observation points. 

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

From Nov 7th – 13th, France reports that the three CAESAR guns carried out 49 ‘fire’ missions from the Iraqi territory – 35 illumination, 14 destruction. Aircraft conducted 18 sorties and 1 strike in support of forces on the ground in Syria.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent, avec un renforcement à la frontière irako-syrienne. Si Daech a perdu ses capacités militaires, l’organisation terroriste conserve une capacité de nuisance, notamment dans la région du plateau d’Hawija. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué de manière significative. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Les trois canons CAESAR ont réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 49 missions de tir (35 éclairement, 14 destruction – bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2101 missions de tirs. Les Task Forces Monsabert et Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation La TF Monsabert poursuit sa mission d’instruction de la 6ème division irakienne. Elle conseille l’état-major de cette division et, ponctuellement, les brigades qui lui sont subordonnées. Ainsi, du 5 au 11 novembre, un groupe d’instructeurs s’est rendu au poste de commandement de la 24ème brigade pour former pour former 20 stagiaires irakiens aux techniques du combat urbain. La TF Narvik forme et conseille les membres de l’Iraki Counter Terrorism Service (ICTS). Elle dispense actuellement des instructions au combat débarqué et au recueil de renseignement. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Au sein de la coalition, les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Émirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech. Cette semaine, les aéronefs de l’opération Chammal ont réalisé 18 sorties aériennes (bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus) et conduit 1 frappe, en appui des FDS en Syrie. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8636 sorties / 1479 frappes / 2278 objectifs neutralises.’

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 7th-13th, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16s supported ground troops during 8 missions in the fight against ISIS. Weapons were deployed in 3 missions near Deir Ezzor governorate, Syria. Targets were ISIS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 7 t/m 13 November laat MinDef weten Nederlandse F-16’s te hebben ingezet ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Tijdens 8 missies werden 3 wapens ingezet boven Deir al Zour, Syrie. IS Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Contested strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    20 – 50
  • Civilians reported injured
    12–24
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (26) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1835

Incident date

November 13, 2018

Location

هجين , Hajin, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.6897222, 40.83 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

An alleged Coalition night time airstrike targeted a prison killing a number of prisoners, according to local media sources.

Most sources report that among the victims were both ISIS and civilian prisoners.

According to Furat FM, at least 11 members of ISIS were killed. Among others Orient News, Smart News and Step News Agency reported however that among the victims were civilian prisoners as well, although the exact numbers remained unknown.

Shaam News for example reported that “International Alliance aircraft launched air strikes targeting an Islamic State prison in Hajin  city, killing and wounding many prisoners in addition to members of the organization.”

In its October 2020 monthly civilian casualty review, the US-led Coalition classed this event as ‘non credible’, asserting that “After a review of all available records it was assessed that no Coalition actions were conducted in the geographical area that corresponds to the report of civilian casualties.”

The incident occured during the night.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2 – 6
  • (2–6 other protected persons)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–6
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (10) [ collapse]

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Non credible / Unsubstantiated
    Insufficient information to assess that, more likely than not, a Coalition strike resulted in civilian casualties.
  • Reason for non-credible assessment
    No Coalition strikes were conducted in the geographical area
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    in Hajin, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    100 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU676401
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 29, 2020
  • 9. Nov. 13, 2018, in Hajin, Syria, via Airwars report. After a review of all available records it was assessed that no Coalition actions were conducted in the geographical area that corresponds to the report of civilian casualties. 3227/CS1835 37SFU676401

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 13th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 13 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 24 strikes consisting of 45 engagements against an ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 24 strikes engaged two tactical units and destroyed three buildings, five supply routes, six weapons caches, one tunnel, one fighting position, two command and control centers, three staging areas, and two observation points. 
For November 14th the Coalition reported: On Nov. 14 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 26 strikes consisting of 48 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 26 strikes engaged eight tactical units and destroyed eight buildings, three supply routes, four command and control centers, two weapons caches, three fighting positons, four staging areas, and one tunnel.

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

From Nov 7th – 13th, France reports that the three CAESAR guns carried out 49 ‘fire’ missions from the Iraqi territory – 35 illumination, 14 destruction. Aircraft conducted 18 sorties and 1 strike in support of forces on the ground in Syria.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent, avec un renforcement à la frontière irako-syrienne. Si Daech a perdu ses capacités militaires, l’organisation terroriste conserve une capacité de nuisance, notamment dans la région du plateau d’Hawija. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué de manière significative. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Les trois canons CAESAR ont réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 49 missions de tir (35 éclairement, 14 destruction – bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2101 missions de tirs. Les Task Forces Monsabert et Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation La TF Monsabert poursuit sa mission d’instruction de la 6ème division irakienne. Elle conseille l’état-major de cette division et, ponctuellement, les brigades qui lui sont subordonnées. Ainsi, du 5 au 11 novembre, un groupe d’instructeurs s’est rendu au poste de commandement de la 24ème brigade pour former pour former 20 stagiaires irakiens aux techniques du combat urbain. La TF Narvik forme et conseille les membres de l’Iraki Counter Terrorism Service (ICTS). Elle dispense actuellement des instructions au combat débarqué et au recueil de renseignement. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Au sein de la coalition, les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Émirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech. Cette semaine, les aéronefs de l’opération Chammal ont réalisé 18 sorties aériennes (bilan du 7 au 13 novembre inclus) et conduit 1 frappe, en appui des FDS en Syrie. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8636 sorties / 1479 frappes / 2278 objectifs neutralises.’

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 7th-13th, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16s supported ground troops during 8 missions in the fight against ISIS. Weapons were deployed in 3 missions near Deir Ezzor governorate, Syria. Targets were ISIS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 7 t/m 13 November laat MinDef weten Nederlandse F-16’s te hebben ingezet ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Tijdens 8 missies werden 3 wapens ingezet boven Deir al Zour, Syrie. IS Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2 – 6
  • (2–6 other protected persons)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–6
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (10) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1836

Incident date

November 15, 2018

Location

البوبدران, Al Boubadran, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.554886, 40.950379 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

An alleged Coalition airstrike targeted a residential area and reportedly killed between eight and 23 civilians, in what local sources described as “a massacre”.

According to Sana News, 23 civilians died as a result of the airstrike. Step News  and Euphrates Post reported that a total of 20 people died. Step added that 17 belonged to the same family of Al Hamid al-Saleh Al Abdullah, of whom many were women and children.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights first reported 10 civilian deaths as a result of the strike, including four women. It later added that the death toll had risen to 18 and that all victims were of the same family, including 14 children and three women. Most other media sources reported similar numbers between 17 or 18 civilians of whom most were reported to be women and children of the same family.

Deir Ezzor 24 reported the lowest number of civilian casualties and put the death toll at eight.

Free Deir Ezzor Radio posted that several civilians were injured in addition to the family members who died. According to Step News, it was one female family member who survived.

According to Jisr TV, the family was displaced and had fled Coalition bombing and Kurdish militias on their border village in search of safety in the town of al Soussa.

On March 10, 2022 in the CJTF-OIR Civilian Casualty Report, the Coalition reported this incident to be “non-credible”, stating that “After review of all available evidence it was determined that more likely than not civilian casualties did not occur as a result of a Coalition strike.”

The local time of the incident is unknown.

The victims were named as:

Family members (27)

Mahmoud Saleh Al-Abdullah
Adult male killed
Kaddifa Ali Al Khalaf
Age unknown killed
Samira Dideb al-Jassim
Age unknown killed
Hamid Saleh Al-Abdullah
Age unknown male killed
Warfa Aeef al-Azzawi
Age unknown killed
Khalfa Al  Hussein
Age unknown killed
Hamdan Saleh Al-Abdullah
Age unknown killed
Warda Ahmed Al-Hamad
Age unknown killed
Hamid Saleh Al Abdullah Abo Yusef
Age unknown male killed
Khalife Hussein Al-Qatta
Adult female killed
Maha Mohammed Al-Musleh
Adult female killed
Majida Hamid al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Amjad Hamid Al Saleh
Age unknown killed
Dunya Hamid al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Nadia Hamid al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Shadia Hamid al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Farah Hamid Al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Kafa Hamid Al Saleh
Age unknown killed
Mohammed Hamid Saleh
Age unknown male killed
Ayman Yousef  Hamid al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Yamen Yousef  Hamid Al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Amena Hamid Al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Iman Hamid Al-Saleh
Age unknown killed
Saleh Mahmoud Al Saleh Al - Abdullah
Child of Hamid al-Saleh
Child female killed
Entsar Aayef Al-Thayab
Adult female injured
Child of Hamid al-Saleh
Child male injured

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    8 – 23
  • (8–14 children3–4 women1 man)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (42) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (5) [ collapse]

  • Photograph of Saleh Mahmoud Saleh, one of the victims of the alleged Coalition airstrike on Al Soussa on November 15th 2018, according to Deir Ezzor 24.
  • Victims of the alleged Coalition airstrike in Al Soussa on November 15th 2018, according to Jisir TV.
  • Victim of the alleged Coalition airstrike in Al Soussa on November 15th 2018, according to Jisir TV
  • Victims of the alleged Coalition airstrike in Al Soussa on November 15th 2018, according to Jisir TV
  • # URGENT | # ORGANIZATION OF THE [Islamic] STATE: 18 civilians, most of them children, were killed by raids of the coalition on the # Albaqouz countryside # Abu Kamal

Geolocation notes (1) [ collapse]

Reports of the incident mention the Al Boubadran (البوبدران) neighbourhood, in the north of Al Soussa (السوسة), for which the generic coordinates are: 34.554886, 40.950379. Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further. Coordinates released by the Coalition place the event at 34.54233, 40.84554

  • Reports of the incident mention the Al Boubadran (البوبدران) neighbourhood, in the north of Al Soussa (السوسة).

    Imagery:
    Google Earth

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Not yet assessed

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 15th-16th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 15 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 19 strikes consisting of 38 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 19 strikes destroyed five buildings, three supply routes, 11 fighting positions, two mortars, one weapons cache, and one command and control center.

UK Military
  • English
    /
    Original

‘Thursday 15 November – Typhoons struck three Daesh positions in eastern Syria…Further assistance was rendered to the SDF on Thursday 15 November by a Typhoon flight, which bombed in turn three Daesh positions on the banks of the Euphrates, north-west of Hajin.’

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 14th-20th 2018, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16’s supported ground troops in the fight against IS during 10 missions. Weapons were deployed during 3 missions above Deir Ezzor in Syria, targeting IS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 14 t/m 20 November laat MinDef weten F-16’s te hebben ingezet tijdens 10 missies ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Bij 3 werden wapens ingezet, boven Deir al Zour in Syrie. Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities van IS zijn vernietigd.’

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

France report that from Nov 14th – 20th, Task Force Wagram conducted 64 firing missions – 47 ‘lighting’, 17 ‘destruction’. Aircraft carried out 18 sorties but there were no strikes.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Appuyées par la coalition, les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent. Evitant le contact, Daech tente d’alimenter un sentiment d’insécurité par des actions clandestines ciblant indistinctement les FSI ou la population irakienne. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Elle a réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 64 missions de tir (47 éclairement, 17 destruction – bilan du 14 au 20 novembre inclus).’ Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2165 missions de tirs.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    8 – 23
  • (8–14 children3–4 women1 man)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (42) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1837

Incident date

November 16, 2018

Location

السوسة, Al Soussa, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.528889, 40.9675 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

According to local media, an alleged Coalition airstrike killed ISIS member Yousuf Mahmoud al-Mohsen and his wife Furat Imad Awwad al-Hamad.

According to Euphrates Post and others, al-Mohsen was an early member and conspirator of the terrorist organisation ISIS in al Soussa: “Following the killing of Yousef Mahmoud al-Mohsen in addition to his wife Furat Imad Awwad al-Hamad from the city of Mohsen after an airstrike of the international Coalition targeted the town of Al Soussa yesterday, it is noteworthy that Yousef  is one of the first members of Daesh.”

In its October 2020 monthly civilian casualty review, the US-led Coalition classed this event as ‘non credible’, asserting that “This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility.”

The local time of the incident is unknown.

The victims were named as:

Furat Imad Awwad al-Hamad
Adult female From the family of Mohsin-Bahouri-Al Bou Azzam Al Khader. She was from al Bahhouri neighborhood in Mouhasan city. killed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • (1 woman)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (9) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (3) [ collapse]

  • According to Euphrates Post, ISIS member Yousef Mahmoud al-Mohsen was reported killed in an alleged Coalition airstrike on November 16th, 2018.
  • Body of ISIS member Yousef Mahmoud al-Mohsen who was reported killed along with his wife by an alleged Coalition airstrike on November 16th 2018, according to Euphrates Post.
  • ISIS member Yousef Mahmoud al-Mohsen (via Akeel al Hamoud)

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Non credible / Unsubstantiated
    Insufficient information to assess that, more likely than not, a Coalition strike resulted in civilian casualties.
  • Reason for non-credible assessment
    Insufficient information on the time and location
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    in al Soussa, Iraq [sic]
    Nearest population center
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU805225
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 29, 2020
  • 11.Nov. 16, 2018, in al Soussa, Iraq [sic], via Airwars report. This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility. 3204/CS1837 37SFU805225

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 16th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 16 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 22 strikes consisting of 41 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 22 strikes engaged 14 tactical units and destroyed 11 vehicles, eight supply routes, five buildings, three staging areas, one tunnel, one vehicle borne IED and one media cell.  

UK Military
  • English
    /
    Original

Friday 16 November – Typhoons destroyed an armed truck and a concealed truck bomb in eastern Syria… The following day [Nov 16th], a Daesh armed truck was reported to be firing to the north of Hajin; Typhoons responded, and destroyed it with a direct hit from a Paveway IV. The Typhoons were then directed to a ruined building, next to a road, within which the terrorists had been spotted hiding a truck-bomb. A second Paveway was used against this target, producing a large explosion which confirmed that the truck-bomb had been successfully detonated before any civilians or SDF had been placed in danger.

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

France report that from Nov 14th – 20th, Task Force Wagram conducted 64 firing missions – 47 ‘lighting’, 17 ‘destruction’. Aircraft carried out 18 sorties but there were no strikes.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Appuyées par la coalition, les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent. Evitant le contact, Daech tente d’alimenter un sentiment d’insécurité par des actions clandestines ciblant indistinctement les FSI ou la population irakienne. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Elle a réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 64 missions de tir (47 éclairement, 17 destruction – bilan du 14 au 20 novembre inclus).’ Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2165 missions de tirs.

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For November 14th-20th 2018, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16’s supported ground troops in the fight against IS during 10 missions. Weapons were deployed during 3 missions above Deir Ezzor in Syria, targeting IS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 14 t/m 20 November laat MinDef weten F-16’s te hebben ingezet tijdens 10 missies ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Bij 3 werden wapens ingezet, boven Deir al Zour in Syrie. Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities van IS zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • (1 woman)
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (9) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1838

Incident date

November 16, 2018

Location

الشعفة, Al Sha'afa, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.57888, 40.93441 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

An alleged Coalition night time airstrike killed “a number of civilians” and injured others, according to local media.

Several sources including the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SN4HR) reported the deaths of two civilian brothers. According to sources including Zaman Al Wasl, Al Soussa News, Al Shaafa News and the Syrian Unified Observatory, the injured belonged to the same family as the brothers.

Al Watan News reported that more civilians were trapped under the rubble of destroyed houses in the village. However Al Sha’afa News, while noting the deaths of the brothers, said that other family members were only lightly injured.

In its October 2020 monthly civilian casualty review, the US-led Coalition classed this event as ‘non credible’, asserting that “After a review of all available records it was assessed that no Coalition actions were conducted in the geographical area that corresponds to the report of civilian casualties.”

The incident occured during the night.

The victims were named as:

Family members (2)

Sanad Hamad Al-Awad Al-Kahkawi
Adult male killed
Yousef Hamad Al-Awad Al-Kahkawi
Adult male killed

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2
  • (2 men)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–4
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (15) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (1) [ collapse]

  • Two named brothers reported killed by an alleged Coalition airstrike in Al Shaafa on November 16th 2018, according to Deir Ezzor 24.

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention Al Sha’afa (الشعفة) village, for which the generic coordinates are: 34.57888, 40.93441. Due to limited satellite imagery and information available to Airwars, we were unable to verify the location further.

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Non credible / Unsubstantiated
    Insufficient information to assess that, more likely than not, a Coalition strike resulted in civilian casualties.
  • Reason for non-credible assessment
    No Coalition strikes were conducted in the geographical area
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    in al Shaafa, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    100 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU805225
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • 10.Nov. 16, 2018, in al Shaafa, Syria, via Airwars report. After a review of all available records it was assessed that no Coalition actions were conducted in the geographical area that corresponds to the report of civilian casualties. 3230/CS1838 37SFU805225

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For 16th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 16 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 22 strikes consisting of 41 engagements against ISIS targets.
Near Hajin, 22 strikes engaged 14 tactical units and destroyed 11 vehicles, eight supply routes, five buildings, three staging areas, one tunnel, one vehicle borne IED and one media cell.  

For November 17th, the Coalition reported: On Nov. 17 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 37 strikes consisting of 53 engagements against ISIS targets.
]Near Hajin, 37 strikes engaged five tactical units and destroyed 15 buildings, seven supply routes, seven staging areas, four fighting positons, two weapons caches, one media cell, and one tunnel.

UK Military
  • English
    /
    Original

Friday 16 November – Typhoons destroyed an armed truck and a concealed truck bomb in eastern Syria… The following day [Nov 16th], a Daesh armed truck was reported to be firing to the north of Hajin; Typhoons responded, and destroyed it with a direct hit from a Paveway IV. The Typhoons were then directed to a ruined building, next to a road, within which the terrorists had been spotted hiding a truck-bomb. A second Paveway was used against this target, producing a large explosion which confirmed that the truck-bomb had been successfully detonated before any civilians or SDF had been placed in danger.

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

France report that from Nov 14th – 20th, Task Force Wagram conducted 64 firing missions – 47 ‘lighting’, 17 ‘destruction’. Aircraft carried out 18 sorties but there were no strikes.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie L’opération pour reprendre la poche d’Hajine dans la moyenne vallée de l’Euphrate, lancée le 10 septembre, marque actuellement un temps d’arrêt. Appuyées par la coalition, les forces démocratiques syriennes se réorganisent et consolident leurs positions avant de relancer leur offensive. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent. Evitant le contact, Daech tente d’alimenter un sentiment d’insécurité par des actions clandestines ciblant indistinctement les FSI ou la population irakienne. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate La Task Force (TF) Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Elle a réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 64 missions de tir (47 éclairement, 17 destruction – bilan du 14 au 20 novembre inclus).’ Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2165 missions de tirs.'

Dutch Military
  • English
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    Original

For November 14th-20th 2018, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16’s supported ground troops in the fight against IS during 10 missions. Weapons were deployed during 3 missions above Deir Ezzor in Syria, targeting IS warehouses and fighting positions.

‘In het weekoverzicht van 14 t/m 20 November laat MinDef weten F-16’s te hebben ingezet tijdens 10 missies ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Bij 3 werden wapens ingezet, boven Deir al Zour in Syrie. Opslagplaatsen en gevechtsposities van IS zijn vernietigd.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2
  • (2 men)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–4
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Fair
    Reported by two or more credible sources, with likely or confirmed near actions by a belligerent.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (15) [ collapse]