Syria dismantles Daesh cell, arresting four leaders

• Syrian security forces arrested four Daesh leaders in Raqqa and several members in Aleppo, Idlib, and Homs.
• The cell engaged in kidnappings, assassinations, and bombings; raids seized prepared explosives, weapons, and ammunition.
• Syrian authorities continue to target active sleeper cells across the country.

Syrian security forces announced Sunday the arrest of four leaders of a Daesh cell that was actively planning to carry out attacks across multiple regions of the country.

Syrian state television reported that the General Intelligence Service, in coordination with internal security forces, successfully dismantled the cell, which was involved in orchestrating kidnappings, planting improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and executing assassinations.

According to official security statements, the cell originally initiated its operational activities from Raqqa governorate before expanding its reach into Aleppo, Idlib, and Homs.

Targeted attack plans

An internal security forces statement confirmed that targeted tracking operations led to the capture of four senior cell figures in Raqqa, along with several operational members across Aleppo, Idlib, and Homs.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the cell was preparing to execute attacks aimed at undermining regional security and stability.

During the raids, security personnel seized improvised explosive devices ready for detonation, alongside a variety of firearms, live ammunition, and hand grenades found in the suspects' possession.

Anti-Daesh operations continue

The operation comes as the new Syrian administration continues to navigate major security hurdles.

In 2025, the new authorities officially joined the US-led global coalition against Daesh.

Syrian security agencies routinely announce the detention of Daesh commanders and operatives, including last month's arrest of a senior military leader in the country's north.

Although Daesh suffered a territorial defeat and lost its final Syrian stronghold in 2019, the group periodically claims attacks against Syrian security personnel, with active sleeper cells persisting in areas such as the Syrian Desert (Badia).

In July, two simultaneous IED explosions targeted the perimeter of a hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during a visit to Damascus. Syrian authorities subsequently confirmed that the cell behind the dual bombings belonged to Daesh.