Syrian security forces kill five ISIS-linked militants near Damascus

Syrian internal security forces announced a security operation in the town of Rankous, near Damascus, resulting in the deaths of five militants linked to the Islamic State (ISIS). The operation, conducted in coordination with intelligence services, targeted a cell identified by the acronym ‘Daesh’.

During the confrontation, the militants refused to surrender and opened fire on security personnel. The clashes resulted in the deaths of two security force members and left five others injured. Authorities reported that six additional individuals were arrested, and weapons along with explosive belts were seized at the scene.

Since taking power following the removal of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, the current Islamic authorities in Syria have frequently reported the dismantling of networks connected to the terrorist organization. While ISIS lost significant territory in Syria in 2019, active cells continue to operate, primarily in desert regions, and periodically carry out attacks targeting Syrian security forces.