Rankous:Damascus Two Syrian Internal Security Forces personnel were killed and five others injured during a security operation targeting an ISIS-affiliated cell in the western Damascus countryside, as confirmed by Syria's Interior Ministry.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the clashes occurred in Rankous town during the operation against the ISIS cell. Security forces, in cooperation with the General Intelligence Service, had launched the operation on Thursday. The Interior Ministry's statement indicated that the cell members refused to surrender and exchanged fire with the security personnel, leading to the casualties.

The operation successfully neutralized five ISIS members and resulted in the arrest of six others. Additionally, weapons and explosive belts were seized. This operation is part of ongoing efforts by Syrian authorities to dismantle ISIS cells and prevent potential attacks.

Earlier this month, the Interior Ministry announced the successful foiling of an ISIS plan to attack a police patrol in the Damascus countryside, which led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of an explosive device. In another operation, a key ISIS military commander, Khaled Raed Birouni, was arrested in Hujaira, accused of orchestrating several attacks in Homs, including a significant bombing in 2025.

Since the regime of Bashar al-Assad fell in December 2024, Syrian authorities have been intensively working to restore security and control over the region by targeting armed groups and preventing attacks on civilians and security forces.