Syrian Interior Ministry Announces Dozens Arrested in Security Campaign Against ISIS

The Ministry of Interior in Syria’s interim government has carried out a large-scale security operation in several provinces targeting individuals suspected of belonging to the Islamic State (ISIS), as part of its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.

In a statement, the ministry said the operation — which will continue for several days — comes “as part of national efforts to fight terrorism and enhance security and stability.” The campaign included simultaneous raids in the provinces of Aleppo, Idlib, Hama, Homs, Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, Damascus and its countryside, as well as the Syrian Desert.

Ministry spokesperson Nour al-Din al-Baba explained that intelligence information indicated that “ISIS cells were planning new attacks” ahead of Syria’s expected accession to the international coalition against the group, prompting the launch of this preemptive campaign.

He added that “the security operation has so far resulted in the arrest of 71 individuals, including field commanders and members involved in attacks against civilians and military personnel,” noting that security forces also “neutralized one ISIS member” and that one security officer was injured during clashes.

According to the statement, forces seized several weapons and ammunition depots, as well as hideouts containing logistical equipment and communication devices in various areas. Investigations with the detainees are ongoing.

ISIS, which lost most of the territory it once controlled since 2017, still maintains small cells active in parts of the Syrian Desert and some border regions.