Major Blow to ISIL Operations Near Damascus
In recent developments, Syrian security forces have successfully targeted ISIL fighters in a significant operation near Damascus, leading to the death of a key figure within the group. This article explores the details surrounding the raid and its implications for local security.
Details of the Operation
On December 25, 2025, the Syrian Ministry of Interior announced that their security forces conducted a second operation against ISIL members, specifically targeting a senior commander known as Mohammed Shahadeh, or Abu Omar Shaddad. He was recognized as the group’s governor of Hauran and presented as a considerable threat to local safety.
Intelligence and Coordination
The successful raid was executed based on verified intelligence and extensive surveillance. Specialized units from the security forces undertook a targeted assault in the town of al-Buweida, located near Qatana, just southwest of Damascus. This operation was carried out in close collaboration with the General Intelligence Directorate and international coalition forces.
A Day of Enforcement
This announcement followed another operation the day prior, where Syrian forces apprehended another senior ISIL figure, Taha al-Zoubi. The state-run SANA news agency reported that al-Zoubi was arrested in a well-orchestrated security action in the Damascus countryside, during which officers also confiscated a suicide belt and a military weapon.
Addressing ISIL’s Threat
Brigadier General Ahmad al-Dalati, who oversees internal security in the Damascus region, revealed that the raid aimed to dismantle an ISIL hideout in Maadamiya, another area southwest of the capital. ISIL, which regards the current Syrian authorities as illegitimate, has predominantly directed its remaining efforts against Kurdish-led forces in northern Syria.
A Historical Perspective
At the height of its influence, ISIL controlled significant stretches of land across both Iraq and Syria, with Raqqa declared as its capital. Despite experiencing military defeats in Iraq in 2017 and subsequently in Syria in 2019, the group’s remnants continue to pose threats, engaging in sporadic attacks in the region and even extending their influence to certain parts of Africa and Afghanistan.
Conclusion
The recent operations against ISIL leaders underscore the ongoing efforts of Syrian security forces to neutralize remaining threats. As authorities continue to collaborate with international partners, the focus remains on ensuring local and regional stability in the face of ISIL’s persistent presence.
- Syrian security forces have intensified operations against ISIL near Damascus.
- Mohammed Shahadeh, a senior ISIL commander, was killed in a targeted raid.
- The raids involved collaboration with international coalition forces.
- ISIL continues to be a threat despite suffering significant military defeats in recent years.