The Islamic State group carried out an attack on three posts belonging to Syrian government forces and pro-government gunmen in the central province of Homs early Friday, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the attack also left several others injured and in need of medical treatment. The conflicting casualty counts provided by various sources could not immediately be reconciled. Pro-government media outlets like Athr Press and Sham FM confirmed the attack and stated that IS gunmen were behind it, although no further details were provided. This area was once a stronghold of the extremist group, which was officially defeated in Syria in March 2019.
IS sleeper cells have been holding responsibility for deadly attacks not only against Syrian government forces but also against the U.S.-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in eastern Syria. In 2014, IS declared a caliphate in large parts of Syria and Iraq, attracting thousands of supporters from around the world to join them. Last month, an attack by IS on pro-government Palestinian fighters near Sukhna resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals. The presence of IS sleeper cells continues to pose a threat in Syria, carrying out attacks on various factions and causing further instability in the region. The Syrian government faces multiple security challenges as it tries to maintain control over the country’s territory and protect its citizens.
The lack of a clear claim of responsibility for the recent attacks adds to the complexity of the situation in Syria, where various armed groups operate and carry out attacks against each other. The Syrian conflict has become a tangled web of alliances and rivalries, with different factions vying for control and influence in the war-torn country. The presence of IS sleeper cells and their ability to carry out attacks underscores the ongoing security concerns in Syria and the need for continued vigilance on the part of the government and its allies.
The attacks on government forces and pro-government gunmen near Sukhna highlight the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups like IS in Syria. Despite being officially defeated in 2019, IS has continued to carry out attacks and maintain a presence through sleeper cells in various parts of the country. The ability of these cells to launch coordinated attacks on multiple targets indicates a level of organization and planning that poses a serious security risk. The Syrian government and its allies will need to remain vigilant and work together to address the threat posed by these extremist groups and prevent further loss of life.
The conflict in Syria has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis, with millions of people displaced and in need of assistance. The ongoing violence and instability in the country have made it difficult for humanitarian organizations to reach those in need and provide essential services. The attacks on government forces and pro-government gunmen in Homs further exacerbate the humanitarian situation in Syria and underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. International support and cooperation will be crucial in addressing the security and humanitarian challenges facing Syria and helping the country rebuild and recover from years of conflict and instability.
