Syrian authorities have revealed that the Islamic State (ISIS) was preparing suicide attacks targeting churches and gatherings of worshippers during New Year celebrations in several provinces, particularly in Aleppo, prompting heightened security measures across the country.
According to a statement by Syria’s Ministry of Interior, cited by gr.euronews.com, security forces uncovered planned operations aimed at religious sites and civilian assemblies during the festive period. The disclosure underscores the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups, especially against places of worship and religious minorities.
In the Bab al-Faraj district of Aleppo, a police officer became suspicious of a man later identified as having links to ISIS. During an attempted arrest, the suspect opened fire, killing one police officer before detonating an explosive device, injuring two others.
ISIS has reportedly intensified its attacks in recent months in areas controlled by Syria’s new authorities in Damascus. In December, an attack in Palmyra attributed to ISIS resulted in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and one American civilian, prompting retaliatory U.S. strikes against ISIS targets inside Syria.
Syrian officials say counterterrorism operations against the group are ongoing and have recently announced the killing of a senior ISIS figure. At the same time, they emphasize that ensuring the safety of churches, religious minorities, and places of worship remains a critical challenge amid continued instability.
The attempted attacks highlight the persistent risks facing religious communities in Syria, even during major celebrations, and the need for sustained security efforts to protect civilians and sacred sites alike.
