# Syrian security operations against ISIS-linked cells > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/syrian-security-operations-against-isis-linked-cells > Updated: 2026-10-22T12:31:10.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2. Syrian internal security forces and intelligence services conducted a joint operation in the town of Rankous, near the western Damascus countryside and the Lebanese border, targeting a cell linked to the Islamic State (ISIS). The operation resulted in the deaths of five militants and two security personnel, while five other security members were wounded. Authorities also arrested six individuals and seized weapons and explosive belts. This incident follows a pattern of recent security actions aimed at dismantling militant networks. Previous operations included foiling a plot against a police patrol in the Damascus countryside on October 16 and dismantling a cell in the Houla area of Homs province that was reportedly monitoring security patrols and places of worship. Since the removal of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, the current Islamic authorities in Syria have frequently reported dismantling networks connected to ISIS. Although the group lost significant territory in 2019, active cells continue to operate, primarily in desert regions, and periodically target security forces. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-22: Syrian security forces suffer casualties in raid against IS-linked cell Two Syrian security personnel were killed and five injured during a joint operation against an Islamic State-linked cell in Rankous, near the Lebanese border. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/syrian-security-forces-suffer-casualties-in-raid-against-is-linked-cell ### 2026-10-22: Syrian security forces kill five ISIS-linked militants near Damascus Syrian security forces killed five ISIS-linked militants and arrested six others during a clash in Rankous, near Damascus, leaving two security officers dead. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/syrian-security-forces-kill-five-isis-linked-militants-near-damascus --- Cite as: Syrian security operations against ISIS-linked cells. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/syrian-security-operations-against-isis-linked-cells