The Syrian Ministry of Interior announced Saturday evening the end of a major security operation targeting a suspected ISIS cell in the northern city of Aleppo. The joint operation, conducted by the General Security Administration (GSA) and the intelligence services, resulted in the deaths of three militants and the arrest of four others, according to a statement released on the ministry’s official Telegram channel.
The ministry confirmed that the cell had been hiding in a residential area of Aleppo and that a coordinated raid led to armed clashes that left one officer dead. During the operation, security forces seized a cache of weapons, including explosive devices, a suicide vest, and several stolen military uniforms.
“We assure our people across Syria that we will continue to strike criminal cells with an iron fist,” the ministry said, reaffirming its commitment to “protecting the country’s security and stability and confronting anyone who dares to tamper with it.”
Ongoing Threat and Tactical Response
The raid in Aleppo marks one of several operations this year aimed at dismantling remnants of ISIS, which continues to pose a security threat despite its territorial defeat. Earlier in the day, the Interior Ministry reported the arrest of one cell member during an initial sweep, stating that further action would follow. The final report confirmed the broader scope of the operation and the full extent of the arrests.
The ministry emphasized that all security forces remain vigilant, regularly conducting preemptive strikes to prevent sleeper cells from regaining a foothold. The materials seized during Saturday’s operation suggest the group was preparing for attacks, though authorities did not disclose any specific plots.
Recent Incidents Highlight Persistent Challenges
This operation follows a March raid in Albukamal, in Syria’s eastern Deir Ezzor province, where GSA commander Muhammad Yusuf al-Muhanna was killed during a confrontation with an ISIS cell. The firefight also resulted in injuries to several officers and the death of a militant identified as Hamza al-Sulayman, according to security sources.
Such operations underscore the continued challenge of rooting out extremist elements across the country, particularly in areas once held by the group. Although the Assad regime fell in December security agencies face ongoing threats from covert networks and armed factions.
Rebuilding Security Amid Fragile Stability
Saturday’s operation in Aleppo represents the first significant ISIS-related action in the region since the transitional government began consolidating control. It highlights both the progress made in dismantling militant infrastructure and the enduring risks that persist across Syrian territory.
Authorities say future operations will focus on both urban and rural areas where former militants may be regrouping. The Ministry of Interior reiterated its pledge to “continue its tireless efforts to ensure security and stability in all areas within Syrian territory.”
