Syria Foils ISIS Attack on Sayeda Zeinab Shrine, Heightening Fears of Resurgence

Syria's Intelligence Directorate successfully thwarted an attack by the Islamic State (ISIS) group on the Sayeda Zeinab shrine in a Damascus suburb, according to the state news agency Sana. The attack, which targeted the prominent Shi'ite pilgrimage site, was foiled when members of the terror cell were arrested before they could detonate their explosives inside the shrine.

The incident has heightened concerns about the potential for ISIS to regroup in Syria, especially after the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. The attack, which mirrors past attempts by ISIS to target the shrine, underlines the ongoing threats faced by religious minorities in Syria, particularly Shi'ites.

The shrine of Sayeda Zeinab, located about 10 kilometers south of Damascus, holds immense religious significance for Shi'ite Muslims, drawing pilgrims from across the region. It has long been a symbol of defense during Syria's civil war, attracting Shi'ite militias to support Assad's regime. However, with the fall of Assad's government last month, the role of Shi'ite forces in Syria has waned, raising fears among minority communities.

In a statement to Sana, a Syrian intelligence official emphasized the government's commitment to protecting Syria's religious diversity and ensuring the security of all citizens. Despite the recent power shift, the intelligence services continue to employ all resources to defend against threats targeting the nation's varied religious groups.