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

CS1672

Incident date

November 11, 2017

Location

رجم الصليبي, Rajim al Salibi, Deir ez-Zor, Syria

Geolocation

36.040216, 41.178818 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Five civilians including paramedics died and “many” more were wounded in an alleged Coalition airstrike which reportedly struck an ambulance in Rajim al Salibi, local media said. Sources said that the victims were killed as they attempted to help those who were wounded in incident S1471 (listed above) in Al Duaji.

According to Al Khabour, “during an attempt to aid the wounded [from the event in Al Duaji] and take them to a medical point in Rajim Al-Salibi, aircraft bombed the ambulance at the checkpoint (Al-Salibi). This led to the death of five civilians, who were named – see below. 

Zaman al Wasl blamed the Coalition, as did Hasaka Rasd, which also named the above victims. This source added that “the car, which helped them to cross the Al Salibi crossing was targeted again by a drone plane and so far no one has been able to reach to the bodies”.

Eldorar also attributed the event to the Coalition, reporting that “during an attempt to rescue the wounded, the Coalition forces attacked the ambulance again near the Rujm al-Sulaybi checkpoint, resulting in a second massacre that killed five paramedics and civilians.”

Baladi, also blaming the Coalition, said that “three paramedics and two drivers” died.

The incident was first reported on November 11, 2017 at 10:00 pm by .

The victims were named as:

Family members (2)

Fadel Al-Ezzo
Age unknown killed
Bader Fadhal Al-Ezzo
Age unknown killed

The victims were named as:

Abdul Majid Alsnagar
Age unknown male killed
Abdul Ghafur Abdul Majid Al-Sinjar
Age unknown male killed
Omar Aldolf
Age unknown male killed

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    5
  • Civilians reported injured
    10
  • 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 (9) [ collapse]

Geolocation notes (1) [ collapse]

Reports of the incident mention a paramedics’ vehicle driving towards a checkpoint in the area of Rajim al Salibi (رجم الصليبي). Airwars was unable to locate this area but according to local reporting, it is related to the area of Duaij (الدعيج), which, according to information linked to incident CS1671, we have assessed is most likely located in the area marked in red below

  • Assessed area in which the village of Duaij (الدعيج) is most likely located

    Imagery:
    © 2018 Google

CJTF–OIR Declassified Assessment and Press Release

Attached to this civilian harm incident is a provisional reconciliation of the Pentagon's declassified assessment of this civilian harm allegation, based on matching date and locational information.

The declassified documents were obtained by Azmat Khan and the New York Times through Freedom of Information requests and lawsuits filed since March 2017, and are included alongside the corresponding press release published by the Pentagon. Airwars is currently analysing the contents of each file, and will update our own assessments accordingly.

Declassified Assessment Press Release

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.
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 26, 2018
  • After a review of available information it was assessed that no Coalition strikes were conducted in the geographical area that correspond to the report of civilian casualties.

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 11th-12th, the Coalition reported: “Near Dayr Az Zawr, four strikes engaged four ISIS tactical units.”

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    5
  • Civilians reported injured
    10
  • 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 (9) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1704

Incident date

December 29, 2017

Location

البحرة, Al Bahra, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.74226, 40.76953 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

One civilian male, named as Karim Makhkhalf Al-Hamoud Al-Faraj, was killed in an alleged Coalition airstrike on Al Bahra, according to local media.

Euphrates Post, Sharqiya Voice and Deirezzor were among sources blaming the Coalition for the victim’s death. Euphrates Post for example noted “The martyrdom of Karim Mukhlif al-Hamoud al-Faraj from the city of Mohsen as a result of [Coalition] air raids.Step News also mentioned artillery shelling of the town.

In September 2019 the Coalition announced that it had classed this allegation of civilian harm as non-credible. Their monthly civilian casualty report noted, “After a review of all available records it was determined that, more likely than not, civilian casualties did not occur as a result of a Coalition action.”

The incident was first reported on December 29, 2017 at 11:00 am by .

The victims were named as:

Karim Makhkhalf Al-Hamoud Al-Faraj
Age unknown male killed

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • (1 man)
  • 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 (8) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (1) [ collapse]

  • Karim Makhlif Al - Hamoud Al - Faraj, killed in an alleged Coalition strike on Al Bahra, Dec 29th (via Sharqiya Voice)

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention the town of Al Bahra (البحرة), for which the coordinates are: 34.74226, 40.76953.

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
    Other
  • Stated location
    in Al Bahra, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    100 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU620459
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Sep 26, 2019
  • December 29, 2017, in Al Bahra, Syria, via Airwars report. After a review of all available records it was determined that, more likely than not, civilian casualties did not occur as a result of a Coalition action.

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For December 28th-29th, the Coalition reported: “Near Abu Kamal, eight strikes engaged eight ISIS tactical units and destroyed an ISIS-held building and a staging area.”

UK Military
  • English
    /
    Original

Friday 29 December – Tornados dealt with two terrorist positions from which fire was being directed at the Syrian Democratic Forces in the east of the country…Two flights of Tornados flew close air support for the Syrian Democratic Forces the following day [Dec 29th], despite difficult weather conditions; one flight employed a Paveway IV to destroy a building from which fire was being directed at close range against the SDF, whilst the second pair of Tornados engaged through cloud a group of terrorists engaged in street fighting; a Paveway removed the threat to the SDF

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • (1 man)
  • 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 (8) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1735

Incident date

March 3–5, 2018

Location

الباغوز, Al Baghouz, Deir ez-Zor, Syria

Geolocation

34.43221, 40.99226 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

A young man, identified as Omar Mohammed Ali Al Dakhoul, originally from Al Bu Ammru, was killed in an airstrike on the town of Al Baghouz, according to three local sources.

None of the reports however specified on which date the bombardment took place, only mentioning that the man was killed “days ago”.

Statements by Marsad Mohsen and Al Mohsen and Al Bakhour detailed that “an affiliate of the International Alliance” was believed to be behind the air raids.

The local time of the incident is unknown.

The victims were named as:

Omar Mohammed Ali Al Dakhoul
Age unknown male Son of Abu Ammar-Al-Bu adallah-Al-Dakhol killed

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • 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 (3) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (2) [ collapse]

  • Ali Jassem al-Furaiji who was killed in an alleged Coalition airstrike (via Euphrates Post, Nov 29th 2018).
  • Ali Jassem al-Furaiji, killed in an alleged Coalition airstrike (via Youth of Al Soussa)

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
    near al-Bagouz, Syria
    Nearest population center

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 25, 2018
  • March 5, 2018, near al-Bagouz, Syria, via Airwars. After a review of available information it was assessed that no Coalition strikes were conducted in the geographical area that correspond to the report of civilian casualties.

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For March 3rd, the Coalition reported: “On Mar. 3 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted three strikes consisting of three engagements against Daesh targets. Near Abu Kamal, two strikes engaged two Daesh tactical units.”

For March 4th: "On Mar. 4 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted one strike consisting of two engagements against Daesh targets. • Near Abu Kamal, one strike destroyed two Daesh supply routes."

For March 5th: "On Mar. 5 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted two strikes consisting of two engagements against Daesh targets. • Near Abu Kamal, two strikes engaged a Daesh tactical unit and destroyed a Daesh supply route and a Daesh transportation vehicle. "

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1
  • 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 (3) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1765

Incident date

June 7–8, 2018

Location

منطقة تل الجاير:خويبيرة, Tal al Jair (or Tal Safouk), Khwuweibra village school, Hasakah, Syria

Geolocation

36.0183335, 40.9484911 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

According to several sources, ten or eighteen civilians, including women and children, were allegedly killed in a Coalition airstrike on the village of Khuweibra in the Tal al Jair area.

Eye on al Hasaka reported in a Facebook post that “The International Coalition committed a new massacre in the Tal Al Jair area”. An individual in the comment section stated that the Khuweibra school, housing Iraqi refugees, was hit. According to the individual, 18 civilians were killed.

This was later reiterated by several sources, among others by SANA (the official Syrian regime outlet), which stated that “18 civilians, mostly children and women, were killed in a new massacre committed by the warplanes of US-led international coalition in Khoibra village”.

Marsad al Hasaka, Step News Agency and Shaam News reported a lower tally of 10 killed. Marsad al Hasaka also published several images of destruction related to the event, which were attributed to Step News. However the stated village was Tal Safouk.

Shaam News also quoted Coalition spokesman Colonel Sean Ryan who stated that: “We did not detect the injury or death of any civilians as a result of the coalition strikes in Al-Hasakah today”. However, this statement was made regarding strikes that took place on June 11th, whereas the civilian casualty incident in Khuweibra reportedly took place during the night of June 7th or the early hours of June 8th. @CJTFOIR did confirm Iraqi and Coalition artillery targeting the area.

In the first of their September 2020 civilian casualty reports, the US-led Coalition assessed reports that they were responsible for civilian harm in this strike as “non-credible”, stating that no Coalition actions were conducted in the geographical area at that time.

The incident occured during the night.

Summary

  • Civilian infrastructure
    School
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    10 – 18
  • (2–6 children2–6 women)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2
  • 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 (16) [ collapse]

Media
from sources (9) [ collapse]

  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)
  • Reported images of destruction at Tal Safouk or Tal al Jair (via Step News)

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention a school in the village of Khuwaybira (خويبيرا), for which the coordinates are: 36.0183335, 40.9484911. On satellite imagery of June 19, 2018, no destroyed school or building is visible

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
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFV755877
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Sep 9, 2020
  • June 7-8, 2018, in Kwuweibra, 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. 3171/CS1765 37SFV755877

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For June 7th, the Coalition reported that “On June 7 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 12 strikes consisting of 12 engagements against Daesh targets... Near Al Shadaddi, three strikes destroyed two Daesh supply routes and one Daesh line of communication."

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For June 6th – 12th, France report that Task Force Wagram conducted 32 artillery shooting missions in support of the ongoing offensive in the Euphrates Valley. Additionally, 22 aerial sorties were conducted in support of local forces engaged on the ground; there were no strikes.

‘Point de situation des opérations ARMÉE FRANÇAISE – OPÉRATIONS MILITAIRES·THURSDAY, 14 JUNE 2018 CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie En Syrie, l’offensive contre les dernières emprises territoriales de Daech se poursuit.Menée par les forces démocratiques syriennes, coordonnée avec les forces de sécurité irakiennes et appuyée par la coalition, l’offensive a déjà permis de reprendre plus de 40 km2 de territoire à Daech. La progression est néanmoins ralentie par la menace importante que font peser les engins explosifs improvisés sur les forces engagées au sol. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation se poursuivent afin de finir de démanteler les cellules de production d’engins explosifs improvisés et les réseaux terroristes restants. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Formation au profit des forces de sécurité irakiennes La Task Force Monsabert conduit actuellement quatre stages au profit des soldats de la 6e division irakienne. Ils couvrent les domaines de formation respectifs suivants : utilisation de mortiers, fouille opérationnelle, recueil de renseignements, formation au combat. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate Les artilleurs de la Task Force Wagram demeurent engagés en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech dans la vallée de l’Euphrate. Depuis le lancement de l’offensive le 1er mai, ils ont d’ores et déjà réalisé 143 missions de tirs. Cette semaine, 32 missions de tirs ont été réalisées (bilan du 6 au 12 juin inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la TF Wagram a réalisé 1802 missions de tirs. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Sur la semaine écoulée, 22 sorties aériennes ont été réalisées en appui des forces locales engagées au sol (bilan du 6 au 12 juin inclus), essentiellement des missions de recueil de renseignements ou de reconnaissance aérienne. Aucune frappe n’a été réalisée. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8137 sorties / 1450 frappes / 2241 objectifs neutralisés.’

Summary

  • Civilian infrastructure
    School
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    10 – 18
  • (2–6 children2–6 women)
  • Civilians reported injured
    2
  • 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 (16) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1797

Incident date

September 13, 2018

Location

الباغوز, Al Bagouz Fawqani, Deir ez-Zor, Syria

Geolocation

34.4641667, 40.9452778 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Local media reported a “massacre against civilians” after air and artillery strikes in the area of Sheikh Hamad in the town of Al Bagouz Fawqani. A hospital was also reported damaged or destroyed in the action.

Orient News reported “a large number of dead and wounded […] as a result of artillery and rocket fire and Coalition warplanes, especially on the Sheikh Hamad area in the town of Al-Baguz”. Halab Today said that “dozens of civilians” were killed and injured as a result of Coalition airstrikes.

Jisr TV reportedintensive artillery from the French and American international coalition.” Smart New Agency claimed that the shelling had struck a hospital, leading to the death of one civilian.

According to the media outlet, Al Bagouz was “subjected to dozens of raids and artillery shells and missiles, resulting in large-scale destruction”. The media outlet went on to say that the SDF was responsible for the attack, though it is Airwars’ understanding that only the Coalition had access to artillery at Deir Ezzor.

Additionally, Step News Agency stated in a tweet that six ISIS members were killed by air raids by the Coalition as they tried to advance to points controlled by the SDF near the Sheikh Hamad School in al Bagouz.

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 and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1 – 6
  • 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

Sources (9) [ collapse]

Geolocation notes

Coordinates released by the Coalition place the event at 34.46417, 40.94528

US-led Coalition Assessment:

  • Suspected belligerent
    US-led Coalition
  • US-led Coalition position on incident
    Open incident
  • Stated location
    near al Baghouz Fawqani, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    1 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU7867215341
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Mar 10, 2022
  • Sept. 13, 2018, near al Baghouz Fawqani, 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. 3187/SCS1797 37SFU7867215341

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

The Coalition reported the following: “On September 13 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 12 strikes consisting of 15 engagements against ISIS targets. Near Abu Kamal, 12 strikes engaged three ISIS tactical units, and destroyed nine ISIS supply routes, four ISIS fighting positions, one ISIS compound, one ISIS sentry location, one ISIS staging area and one ISIS counter battery fire and damaged one ISIS compound and suppressed two ISIS mortar firing points."

Dutch Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For the third consecutive week Dutch jets deployed weapons. Aircraft targeted ISIS storage units during 2 missions in Deir Ezzor governorate and near Abu Kamal. Between September 13th-18th, F-16s supported ground troops during 9 missions in DE and Iraq.

‘Weekoverzicht Defensieoperaties Nieuwsbericht | 19-09-2018 | 12:00 In de strijd tegen terreurorganisatie ISIS ondersteunden Nederlandse F-16’s grondtroepen tijdens 9 missies boven de Syrische provincie Deir al Zour en Irak. Er zijn 2 keer wapens ingezet in de Syrische provincie Deir al Zour, in de omgeving van Abu Kamal. Logistieke opslagplaatsen van ISIS waren het doelwit. Een overzicht van Defensieoperaties in de week van 13 tot 18 september 2018. Afgelopen week maakte het kabinet bekend dat Nederland de bijdrage van F-16’s in de strijd tegen ISIS na 31 december niet verlengt.’

French Military
  • English
    /
    Original

For Sept 12th-17th, France report that Task Force Wagram has carried out 22 artillery ‘firefights’ from Iraq this week. Aircraft conducted 19 sorties but there were no airstrikes.

‘CHAMMAL Cette semaine est marquée par le 4ème anniversaire de l’opération Chammal qui a débuté le 19 septembre 2014 et constitue la contribution française à l’opération Inherent Resolve regroupant 74 pays et 5 organisations internationales dans la lutte contre Daech. SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, la situation n’a pas évolué de manière significative. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français n’a connu qu’une seule évolution, avec la relève du Chevalier Paul par la FREMM Auvergne en Méditerranée orientale. La Task Force Wagram en appui de l’offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech présentes dans la vallée de l’Euphrate En appui de l’offensive lancée le lundi 10 septembre par les forces au sol dans la région de Hajine, la TF Wagram a réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 22 missions de tirs cette semaine (bilan du 12 au 17 septembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la TF Wagram a réalisé 1911 missions de tirs. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Emirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech au sein de la coalition. La semaine dernière, ils ont réalisé 19 sorties aériennes en appui des forces locales engagées au sol (bilan du 12 au 17 septembre inclus). Aucune frappe n’a été réalisée. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8477 sorties / 1457 frappes / 2249 objectifs neutralisés. TF Monsabert et Narvik La Task Force Monsabert et la Task Force Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation au profit des forces irakiennes.’

Summary

  • Strike status
    Likely strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    1 – 6
  • 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

Sources (9) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1818

Incident date

October 27, 2018

Location

الظهرة ,الشعفة, Dhahra, Al Shafa, Deir ez-Zor, Syria

Geolocation

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

Airwars assessment

On October 30th a single source, Al-Sha’fa Facebook page, reported an alleged Coalition airstrike “on a house in the outskirts of Dhahra.” The source said: “We don’t know who the house belonged to, but the whole family was killed”.

The source was unable to specify the precise date of the reported civilian harm, noting that “In the last three days, more than a dozen air strikes of coalition aircraft were recorded on the city of Al-Shifa. Most of these raids targeted civilian homes and properties. More than 7 houses and 20 people were killed, including children and women.”

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

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    3 – 4
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Weak
    Single source claim, though sometimes featuring significant information.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (2) [ collapse]

Geolocation notes

Reports of the incident mention the Dhahra (الظهرة) area, allegedly within the northern area of Al Shafa (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
    Insufficient information on the time and location
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    in al Shaafa, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • Location accuracy
    100 m
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU774280
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Oct 29, 2020
  • 3. Oct. 27, 2018, in al Shaafa, Syria, via Airwars report. This report contains insufficient information on time, location, or details to assess its credibility. 3212/CS1818 37SFU774280

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

The Coalition publicly reported the following for October 27th-30th:
”On Oct. 27 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted 24 strikes consisting of 32 engagements against ISIS targets. Near Hajin, 24 strikes engaged 12 tactical units, and destroyed three headquarters buildings, five command and control centers, four supply routes, three weapons caches, two IED facilities, and one mortar.”
“On Oct 28, 2018 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted eight military strikes consisting of seven engagements against ISIS targets. Near Hajin, eight strikes engaged two tactical units, and destroyed one supply route, two vehicles, one command and control center, one mortar, one explosive manufacturing facility, one compound and one staging area.”
“On Oct. 29 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted seven strikes consisting of eight engagements against ISIS targets. Near Hajin, eight strikes engaged 10 tactical units, and destroyed two weapons caches, one vehicle borne IED, one vehicle, one command and control center, and one fighting position.”
“On Oct. 30 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted six strikes consisting of 20 engagements against an ISIS targets. Near Hajin, six strikes engaged six tactical units, and destroyed nine vehicles, seven supply routes, and one vehicle borne IED.”

UK Military
  • English
    /
    Original

On Sunday 28 October, a Reaper conducted armed reconnaissance over the Abu Kamal area, and carried out a successful attack with a Hellfire missile, striking a group of terrorists spotted manoeuvring through fields.

UK Military
  • English
    /
    Original

Royal Air Force aircraft have continued to provide close air support to the Syrian Democratic Forces attacking the one significant remaining area held by Daesh in eastern Syria. A Reaper remotely piloted aircraft responded to reports of a terrorist team planting improvised explosive devices north of Hajin on Monday 29 October; its crew were able to spot evidence of their activity around a large fuel tank positioned next to a road. Having checked that there were no signs of any civilians in the immediate area who might be placed at risk, the Reaper’s crew fired a single Hellfire missile, which safely destroyed the booby-trapped fuel tank.

French Military
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For Oct 24th-30th, France report that the three CAESAR guns of Task Force Wagram have conducted 6 firing missions from Iraqi territory. Aircraft carried out 18 sorties and four strikes north of Abu Kamal, 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, se poursuit. Daech a profité des mauvaises conditions météorologiques pour mener des contre-attaques cette semaine et reprendre du terrain aux forces démocratiques syriennes. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations de sécurisation des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent. ACTIVITÉ DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué. 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 Wagram appuie l’offensive des forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Les trois canons CAESAR ont ainsi réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 6 missions de tir (éclairement, harcèlement, destruction – bilan du 24 au 30 octobre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 1998 missions de tirs. 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 24 au 30 octobre inclus) et conduit 4 frappes, en appui des FDS au nord d’Abou Kamal en Syrie. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8600 sorties / 1476 frappes / 2275 objectifs neutralisés.

Dutch Military
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For October 24th – 31st, Dutch MoD reports that Dutch F-16s supported ground troops during nine missions. Weapons were deployed in four: near Abu Kamal, Deir Ezzor governorate, Syria and near Mosul, Nineveh province, Iraq. Targets were ISIS warehouses and vehicles.

‘In de strijd tegen terreurorganisatie ISIS ondersteunden Nederlandse F-16’s grondtroepen tijdens 9 missies. Bij 4 zijn wapens ingezet. Een overzicht van Defensieoperaties in de week van 24 tot 31 oktober 2018. Dat gebeurde in de provincies Deir al Zour en Ninawa, in de omgeving van Abu Kamal (Oost-Syrië) en Mosul (Irak). Doelwit waren opslagplaatsen en voertuigen van ISIS.‘

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    3 – 4
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Weak
    Single source claim, though sometimes featuring significant information.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition

Sources (2) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1854

Incident date

November 25, 2018

Location

أبو الحسن, Abou Al Hasan , Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.6533333, 40.8952778 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Village level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

Between 12 and 30 civilians were reported killed in an alleged Coalition airstrike, which one source described as a “massacre of defenseless Sunni civilians”. According to Step News, 12 civilians were killed whereas the number of dead exceeded 30 according to Official Al Shaafa Facebook page.

Most victims were women and children according to sources on the ground. According to the official Al Shaafa Facebook page, most of the victims were children under 10 years old. Free Deir Ezzor Radio was the only source to report that all victims were women and children.

One source named Faisal al-Sayyid told 7al news “The first raids targeted civilian houses in the village of Abou Al Hasan, killing four civilians, including an elderly woman”. He added that more than 12 civilians were injured.

Two sources indicated that the attack happened in the first hours of the day.

Some bodies were reportedly still stuck under the rubble.

In the first of their March 2020 civilian casualty reports, the US-led Coalition assessed reports that they were responsible for civilian harm in this strike as “non-credible”, stating that no Coalition actions were conducted in the geographical area at that time.

The incident occured between 12:01 am and 6:00 am local time.

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    12 – 30
  • (4–8 children2–6 women)
  • Civilians reported injured
    12–15
  • 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 (19) [ 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
  • MGRS coordinate
    37SFU736362
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Mar 25, 2020
  • Nov. 25, 2018, in Abu Al Hasan, 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. 2931/CS1854 37SFU736362

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

For November 25th, the Coalition publicly reported: On Nov. 25 in Syria, Coalition military forces conducted 14 strikes consisting of 26 engagements against ISIS targets. Near Hajin, 14 strikes engaged 12 ISIS tactical units and destroyed one vehicle, two fighting positons, two supply routes, one UAS launch site, three buildings, one command and control center and one weapons cache.

French Military
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From Nov 21st-27th, France report that Task Force Wagram carried out 62 firing missions (35 lighting, 27 destruction) from Iraq territory. Aircraft carried out 16 sorties and two strikes.

‘CHAMMAL SITUATION MILITAIRE DU THEATRE Offensive contre les dernières poches de Daech en Syrie Dans la région d’Hajine, profitant de conditions météo défavorables, Daech a récemment lancé des offensives contre les positions des forces démocratiques syriennes (FDS). L’appui de la coalition, notamment l’engagement de l’artillerie, a permis de stopper ces offensives. Au bilan, cette action a occasionné des pertes dans les deux camps, sans faire évoluer la ligne de front. Poursuite des actions de sécurisation en Irak En Irak, les opérations des forces de sécurité irakiennes (FSI) se poursuivent, avec un effort le long de la frontière syrienne pour contrer toute tentative d’action de Daech depuis la Syrie. ACTIVITE DE LA FORCE Le dispositif français déployé au Levant n’a pas évolué. 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 les forces démocratiques syriennes contre Daech dans la région d’Hajine. Elle a réalisé, depuis le territoire irakien, 62 missions de tir (35 éclairement, 27 destruction – bilan du 21 au 27 novembre inclus). Depuis le début de son engagement, la Task Force Wagram a réalisé 2227 missions de tirs. Les bases aériennes en Jordanie et aux EAU en appui des opérations Les aéronefs français basés en Jordanie et aux Émirats arabes unis poursuivent leurs actions contre Daech, au sein de la coalition. Cette semaine, les aéronefs de l’opération Chammal ont réalisé 16 sorties aériennes (bilan du 21 au 27 novembre inclus). Les Rafale français ont conduit 2 frappes cette semaine. Bilan total de l’action du pilier appui aérien depuis le 19/09/14 : 8670 sorties / 1481 frappes / 2280 objectifs neutralisés. Les Task Forces Monsabert et Narvik poursuivent leurs missions de formation La Task Force (TF) Monsabert poursuit sa mission d’assistance et de conseil de l’état-major de la 6ème division irakienne, qui est en charge de la sécurisation de l’ouest du grand Bagdad. Insérée au sein du quartier général de la division, la TF se compose d’une centaine de militaires dont les expertises variées permettent de dispenser des instructions opérationnelles adaptées aux besoins émis les Irakiens. Depuis le mois d’octobre, treize stages ont ainsi été organisés, dans des domaines variés comme le secourisme de combat, la lutte contre les IED, le combat en zone urbaine, la lutte contre la menace NRBC ou encore la maintenance ou l’entraînement physique et sportif. Ils ont permis de former quelque 240 militaires irakiens, dont une majorité de cadres ayant pour vocation de devenir instructeurs à leur tour. Monsabert intervient également au profit de l’école d’artillerie irakienne : 75 cadres de cette école ont ainsi été entraînés pendant plus d’un mois. L’artillerie est une capacité de premier ordre pour l’armée irakienne qui l’emploie actuellement à la frontière irako-syrienne pour prévenir toute incursion de Daech depuis la Syrie. Composée d’une quarantaine de militaires, la TF Narvik, qui est implantée dans les faubourgs de Bagdad, forme et conseille les membres de l’Iraki Counter Terrorism Service (ICTS). Mi-octobre ont débuté cinq formations dans les domaines suivants : mise en œuvre d’armes lourdes, combat motorisé, lutte contre les engins explosifs improvisés, sauvetage au combat et tir de précision. D’une durée de douze semaines chacune, ces formations permettent d’instruire les stagiaires de l’école de spécialité de l’ICTS mais également de conseiller les instructeurs irakiens.’

Dutch Military
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For November 21st-27th 2018, the Dutch MoD reported that Dutch F-16's supported ground troops in the fight against IS during 9 missions. Weapons were deployed during 3 missions above Deir Ezzor in Syria, targeting vehicles, logistical places and IS-fighters.

In het overzicht van 21-27 Nov laat MinDef weten tijdens 9 missies F-16's te hebben ingezet ter ondersteuning van grondtroepen in de strijd tegen IS. Bij 3 missies boven Deir al Zour in Syrie werden wapens ingezet. Voertuigen, logistieke plaatsen en IS-strijders zijn aangevallen.

Summary

  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    12 – 30
  • (4–8 children2–6 women)
  • Civilians reported injured
    12–15
  • 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 (19) [ collapse]

Incident Code

CS1886

Incident date

January 10, 2019

Location

البوبدران, Al Boubadran, Deir Ezzor, Syria

Geolocation

34.542338, 40.959091 Note: The accuracy of this location is to Neighbourhood/area level. Continue to map

Airwars assessment

According to sources on the ground, air and artillery strikes targeted the town of Al Boubadran, which allegedly resulted in the deaths and injuries of an unspecified number of civilians.

Most sources blamed the Coalition. Sousseh Facebook page specifically blamed “heavy shelling by French artillery and criminal airstrikes.”

Although some sources also alleged that SDF artillery had been responsible for the casualties, Airwars understands that only the US-led Coalition had access to field artillery at the time. This is therefore a likely Coalition civilian harm event.

In its January 2021 monthly civilian casualty report, the US-led Coalition determined this event to be ‘non credible’, asserting: “The allegation provided insufficient detail to identify a specific date, time, or location to search for corroborating Coalition action.”

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
    2 – 3
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–3
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Contested
    Competing claims of responsibility e.g. multiple belligerents, or casualties also attributed to ground forces.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (8) [ 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
    Insufficient information on the time and location
  • Civilian deaths conceded
    None
  • Civilian injuries conceded
    None
  • Stated location
    in al Soussa, Syria
    Nearest population center
  • MGRS coordinate
    377SFU805225
    Military Grid Reference System

Civilian casualty statements

US-led Coalition
  • Jan 6, 2021
  • Jan. 10, 2019, in Al Soussa, Syria, via Airwars report. The allegation provided insufficient detail to identify a specific date, time, or location to search for corroborating Coalition action. 3263/CS1886 377SFU805225

Original strike reports

US-led Coalition

Between Dec. 30, 2018 and Jan. 12, 2019, CJTF-OIR conducted 575 strikes consisting of 1,147 engagements in
Syria.

In Syria, 575 strikes engaged 485 ISIS tactical units, and destroyed 308 staging areas, 220 fighting positions, 105
mortar, rocket and artillery systems, 57 supply routes, 50 manufacturing facilities for improvised explosive device
and vehicle borne improvised explosive device, 31 command and control nodes, 26 vehicles, 19 weapons caches,
18 mortar launching sites, 18 petroleum oil and lubricant storage facilities, 11 heavy and light weapon systems,
eight reservoirs and tankers for petroleum oil and lubricants, eight pieces of heavy equipment, seven vehicle borne
improvised explosive devices, six tunnels and caves, four buildings, two unmanned aircraft systems, one weapons
facility, one logistics hub and one fuel storage.

Summary

  • Strike status
    Contested strike
  • Strike type
    Airstrike and/or Artillery
  • Civilian harm reported
    Yes
  • Civilians reported killed
    2 – 3
  • Civilians reported injured
    2–3
  • Cause of injury / death
    Heavy weapons and explosive munitions
  • Airwars civilian harm grading
    Contested
    Competing claims of responsibility e.g. multiple belligerents, or casualties also attributed to ground forces.
  • Suspected attacker
    US-led Coalition
  • Suspected target
    ISIS

Sources (8) [ collapse]