Damascus, Syria – Syrian security forces have apprehended the alleged leader of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Damascus, according to an announcement made by the Syrian Interior Ministry on Wednesday. The operation, reportedly conducted in coordination with international coalition forces, targeted a suspected ISIS hideout in the Damascus countryside.
Brigadier General Ahmed al-Dalati, head of internal security in the Rif Dimashq Governorate, stated that specialized units, in cooperation with general intelligence and international coalition forces, carried out a precise security operation targeting a terrorist cell in Al-Moadamieh. This action followed intensive intelligence gathering and surveillance, according to the security official.
The operation resulted in the capture of Taha al-Zoubi, also known as Abu Omar Tibieh, the alleged ISIS ‘governor’ of Damascus, along with several of his aides. Authorities reportedly seized an explosive belt and a firearm during the raid.
“This is a major blow to the organization and confirms the high readiness of our security services to face any threat to the security of the governorate and its surroundings,” said al-Dalati. “Syria’s security is a red line, and we will continue to strike with an iron fist until the complete elimination of terrorist remnants and their hideouts.”
The Interior Ministry had previously announced the dismantling of another ISIS cell and the arrest of its leader and six members just days earlier. These operations underscore the Syrian government’s stated commitment to combating ISIS and preventing the establishment of safe havens within Syrian territory.
The Syrian government has repeatedly called on the United States and member states of the international coalition to support its efforts in combating terrorism, aiming to protect civilians and restore security and stability to the region. Syria officially joined the international coalition against ISIS, which was formed under the leadership of the United States in 2014, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Damascus. The coalition has conducted military operations against ISIS in both Syria and Iraq.
