Syrian Intelligence Foils ISIS Plot in Deir Ezzor, Arrests Suspect

Syrian intelligence, in collaboration with security units, has thwarted a planned ISIS attack targeting a government convoy in the Deir Ezzor province, according to a source in the Interior Ministry.

Authorities seized explosive devices prepared for detonation and apprehended a suspect involved in planning the terrorist act in the town of al-Baghouz, state media reported.

The Interior Ministry stated that the operation was the result of intensive intelligence efforts. Specialized units carried out preemptive measures, leading to the arrest of Khaled Ahmed Azzawi, who is implicated in planning the attack. Azzawi was found in possession of explosive devices ready for use, according to a statement released by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

ISIS has recently intensified its attacks against security forces and the army in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor, coinciding with government efforts to stabilize the country, particularly the eastern region.

On February 26, internal security units in al-Mayadin conducted an operation that resulted in the arrest of Mahmoud Eid al-Ali, an ISIS cell member. According to the head of internal security in Deir Ezzor province, ضرار الشملان, al-Ali was involved in targeting a member of the 86th Division in the Defense Ministry, which led to his death.

Separately, state news agency SANA reported gunfire on a security patrol in Damascus' Umayyad Square. Security forces pursued a vehicle from which the shots were fired and are investigating the incident to determine the circumstances and identify those involved.

A security source denied reports of an assassination attempt targeting Brigadier General Abdul Rahman al-Dabbagh of the intelligence services during the shooting in Umayyad Square.

The source added that authorities responded immediately to the incident, deploying to the area and taking measures to ensure public safety and restore stability.

The source clarified that reports of clashes in the al-Malki neighborhood of Damascus were related to the pursuit of the perpetrators of the Umayyad Square shooting.