The Islamic State (ISIS) has increased its attacks in northeastern Syria throughout September, targeting Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) positions, according to a report released Wednesday by the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).

Between September 1 and September 25, ISIS conducted over 19 operations in SDF-controlled areas, particularly in the Deir ez-Zor region, leading to several deaths and injuries. The SDF, which serves as the US-led international coalition's main ground force against ISIS in Syria, faced multiple assaults, while civilians in areas under the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES) also suffered extortion and violence. ISIS militants reportedly extorted money from civilians under the guise of collecting 'zakat,' an Islamic form of charitable payment.

The SOHR described the situation as a dangerous escalation, with ISIS cells becoming increasingly active in the area. Control of Deir ez-Zor, a strategically significant province bordering Iraq and home to key oilfields such as Omar and Conoco, is divided between the SDF and Syrian regime forces backed by Iran.

In response to the growing instability, authorities in northeast Syria issued a general amnesty on Tuesday for thousands of prisoners, although those involved in violent acts, including ISIS fighters, were excluded from the decree.

This resurgence of ISIS activity poses significant challenges to both the local population and the international coalition's efforts to maintain stability in the region.