In a tragic escalation of violence, four civilians were killed early Friday when Syrian army forces shelled the village of al-Dahalah near Deir ez-Zor, according to a statement from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The United Nations has urgently called for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian laws and prioritize the protection of civilians amidst ongoing tensions in the region.

The SDF reported that the attack occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m., with a barrage of rockets and artillery shells hitting civilian homes and farms in the village. The shelling resulted in the deaths of eleven civilians, most of whom were children, and left five others injured.

This incident marks the latest in a series of violent confrontations in Deir ez-Zor over recent days. On Wednesday, pro-regime National Defense Forces launched an attack that killed two civilians and injured five more, as per SDF sources. The Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), the political wing of the SDF, condemned the Damascus government and called for a unified response against such actions.

Deir ez-Zor province, strategically located along the border with Iraq, remains a flashpoint for clashes between pro-regime fighters and the SDF. Control of the region is divided between the SDF and the Iran-backed Syrian regime, with many of Syria's crucial oilfields, including Omar and Conoco, located in the area.

Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the United Nations, highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis facing residents of Deir ez-Zor due to ongoing conflict. "Residents are suffering from severe food and water shortages and a lack of medical services," Haq stated during a press briefing. The damage to infrastructure has exacerbated these challenges, and the UN continues to provide assistance in the region.

The SDF and pro-regime forces have a history of conflict in Deir ez-Zor, with recent skirmishes and shifting control over key areas. In September, pro-Damascus groups temporarily expelled SDF forces from parts of the province, although the Kurdish-led forces quickly regained control.

Tensions are further complicated by strained relations between the SDF and some Arab tribes in the area. Accusations from anti-SDF groups claim that the Kurdish-led forces are targeting Arabs, a charge the SDF denies.