Syrian Authorities Foil Planned ISIS Attacks on Churches During New Year

Photo: cfr.org

DAMASCUS — Syrian authorities said they thwarted planned Islamic State (ISIS) suicide attacks targeting churches and gatherings of worshippers during New Year celebrations, prompting heightened security measures across several provinces, particularly Aleppo. According to a statement from Syria’s Ministry of Interior, security forces uncovered preparations aimed at religious sites and civilian assemblies during the festive period, underscoring the continued threat posed by extremist groups.

In Aleppo’s Bab al-Faraj district, a police officer grew suspicious of a man later linked to ISIS. During an attempted arrest, the suspect opened fire, killing one officer before detonating an explosive device that wounded two others.

Officials said ISIS has intensified activity in recent months in areas under Syria’s new authorities in Damascus. In December, an ISIS-linked attack in Palmyra killed two U.S. soldiers and an American civilian, triggering retaliatory U.S. strikes.

Syrian authorities said counterterrorism operations are ongoing, emphasizing that protecting churches, religious minorities, and places of worship remains a critical challenge amid persistent instability.

Previously, the UOJ reported that ISIS Islamists beheaded 34 people in Congo. 

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