Syrian authorities thwart Daesh plot to bomb Sayyida Zainab shrine in Damascus

The Syrian Interior Ministry announced on Saturday that it had successfully foiled an attempt by the Daesh terrorist group to bomb the Sayyida Zainab shrine near Damascus, a prominent pilgrimage site that has been targeted in previous attacks by extremist groups.

In an official statement, the ministry confirmed the arrests of individuals involved in the plot, describing the operation as part of “ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of religious sites and the public.”

 The ministry published images of equipment allegedly seized from the suspects, including smartphones, two rifles, three explosive devices and several hand grenades. The photos showed the identitfication documents of two Lebanese and a Palestinian refugee living in Lebanon.

Intelligence operation thwarts attack in Damascus

A source from the General Intelligence Service told the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) that the operation was carried out in cooperation with the General Security Department in the Damascus countryside.

“The General Intelligence Service, in cooperation with the General Security Department in the Damascus countryside, succeeded in thwarting an attempt by Daesh to carry out a bombing inside the Sayyida Zainab shrine in Damascus,” the source said.

According to initial unconfirmed reports, the terrorists had Lebanese IDs and the investigation is ongoing.

Details of Daesh attack plot

While authorities have not disclosed further details about the suspects or the planned attack, preliminary reports suggest the plot involved at least three suicide bombers equipped with person-borne improvised explosive devices (PBIEDs).

Images released by officials show PBIEDs constructed from anti-tank mines concealed in backpacks, connected to grenade fuzes via detonation cord.

PBIEDs are commonly used in terrorist attacks, with explosives concealed under clothing or in personal items such as backpacks, as seen in this case.

Targeting sacred site

The Sayyida Zainab shrine, located south of Damascus, holds significant religious importance and attracts pilgrims from across the region. The site has been the target of several attacks in the past, including suicide bombings carried out by extremist groups.