Security ministry says suicide attacks targeting churches and celebrations were foiled after intelligence tip, as militant group escalates operations across Syria.
DAMASCUS/ALEPPO — Syrian authorities announced on Thursday the disruption of a coordinated Daesh (ISIS) plot to conduct suicide bombings against New Year’s Eve celebrations and churches, primarily in the northern city of Aleppo.
According to a statement from the Syrian Interior Ministry, intelligence gathered in cooperation with partner agencies revealed plans for attacks in several provinces. The ministry stated it had taken “preemptive measures,” including bolstering security around churches, deploying additional patrols, and establishing checkpoints.
The operation turned fatal in Aleppo’s Bab Al-Faraj district. Security forces at a checkpoint attempted to intercept a suspected Daesh operative, who opened fire, killing one soldier from the Internal Security Forces. The attacker then detonated explosives, wounding two others.
This foiled plot underscores a recent escalation in Daesh activity across Syria. Last month, the group was blamed for an attack in Palmyra that killed three Americans—two soldiers and a civilian—prompting retaliatory U.S. airstrikes against militant targets.
Syrian forces have also intensified counter-terror operations, announcing the death of a senior Daesh leader on December 25.
The latest incident highlights the persistent threat posed by the militant group’s remnants, even as Syria’s government works to reassert control after years of conflict.
United Arab Emirates Dirham Exchange Rate
