Syrian authorities have arrested a senior IS jihadist in the Damascus region in a joint operation with the US-led international coalition. The operation targeted an Islamic State hideout and led to multiple detentions.
Taha al-Zoubi, also known as Abu Omar Tabiya, a prominent IS jihadist leader in Damascus, was detained along with several of his associates. General Ahmad al-Dalati confirmed the arrests to state news agency SANA, emphasizing the precision of the security operation.
The arrest follows a deadly December 13 attack in central Syria’s Palmyra, which killed two US soldiers and a US civilian. Washington attributed the assault to a lone IS gunman, highlighting ongoing threats in the region.
“Our specialized units, working with the General Intelligence Directorate and International Coalition forces, carried out a precise operation targeting the IS hideout,” Dalati said. Authorities stressed that coordination with international partners was key to the success of the mission.
Earlier, on December 20, a Syrian monitor reported that US airstrikes killed five IS members in retaliation for the Palmyra attack. These actions reflect heightened efforts to dismantle Islamic State networks across Syria.
The arrest is notable as it occurred after significant changes in Syrian leadership. The December overthrow of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad has raised concerns about extremist infiltration. Syrian authorities noted that the Palmyra attack involved a security forces member with extremist Islamist ideas who was due to be removed from service.
Experts say the detention of the senior IS jihadist in Damascus underscores ongoing threats from sleeper cells and the need for continued vigilance. Authorities continue to investigate possible links between the arrested militants and broader Islamic State networks.
The joint Syrian and international coalition operation marks a significant step in combating terrorism in Syria. Officials said such operations are critical to restoring security and preventing further attacks by IS jihadist elements.
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