Syrian Security Forces Capture ISIS Cell Near Israel-Syria Border in Quneitra

Syrian internal security forces announced on Sunday that they uncovered and arrested a nine-member ISIS cell in Khan Arnabah, a city in the Quneitra province of southern Syria, located just a few kilometers from the Israeli border in the Golan Heights. The cell was involved in collecting weapons, transferring explosives, and preparing explosive devices to support ISIS activities. The cell's leader, Musab Khalil al-Sheikh, nicknamed "the Chinese," was among those detained.

This operation follows a similar Syrian security success last month, when authorities thwarted a weapons and missile smuggling attempt near the Iraqi border. The intercepted shipment, intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon, included 150 explosive drones, long-range missiles, and anti-tank missiles. Syrian forces stopped the smuggling by seizing a truck loaded with arms.

In related developments, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa recently stated in an Al Jazeera interview that Syria avoids military confrontation with Israel due to lack of interest and is working toward a security agreement with Israel involving other countries. He suggested such an agreement could pave the way for comprehensive peace but emphasized Syria's refusal to relinquish its claims over the "occupied Golan." Earlier reports in April quoted al-Sharaa acknowledging difficult negotiations with Israel, complicated by Israel's presence in Syria, yet affirming Syria's serious intent to reach an agreement. During a prior visit to the UK, al-Sharaa claimed that although direct and indirect talks had yielded understandings, Israel withdrew at the last moment.

Separately, discussions continue regarding a special initiative providing Israeli medical treatment to Syrian children, and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah expressed readiness for dialogue with Syria, indicating potential meetings to discuss cooperation.