Completely clearing the Hajin pocket and areas east of the Euphrates remains the goal of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) who are backed by the US-led international anti-ISIS coalition.

Progress slowed in November due inclement weather, ISIS counterattacks, and the Peoples' Protection Units (YPG) briefly heading north to defend their home areas amid Turkish threats.

"The most common weapon ISIS uses is explosives and suicide bombs. They resort to these weapons. They attacked us last night at midnight … they still have forces here, but we will challenge them," said Khalil Khalid, a SDF fighter.

However on Friday, the SDF flag was planted atop Hajin town and fighters fire celebratory gunfire into the skies.

"They had a strong attack against us. We, as the SDF, have reacted and resisted the attack. We’ve been attacking them on the desert side and have completely controlled Hajin [town]," said Adnan Afrin, a SDF commander.

The third phase of Operation Roundup against ISIS east of Euphrates River began three months ago.

ISIS fighters still remain in the surrounding al-Susa and al-Shaafa villages.

The goal is to clear ISIS to the Euphrates and border with Iraq where Iraqi Security Forces, partnered with the coalition, can reestablish border security after the extremists took control in 2014.

Coalition estimates range between 2,000-2,500 ISIS fighters remaining in the border area in eastern Deir ez-Zor governorate.

Rudaw