Wed Dec 24 21:33:04 UTC 2025: Summary:

ShareSaveSyria’s Ministry of Interior, in coordination with a US-led anti-ISIS coalition, arrested Taha al-Zoubi, a high-ranking ISIS leader, also known as Abu Omar Tibiya, in a security operation in the Damascus countryside. Al-Zoubi, who served as ISIS’s “governor” of Damascus, was apprehended along with several aides. A suicide belt and a military weapon were seized during the raid. Syrian officials claim the arrest is a significant blow to ISIS networks in the capital region.

News Article:

Syrian Forces Capture Top ISIS Leader in Damascus Countryside

DAMASCUS – Syrian authorities have announced the arrest of a high-ranking ISIS leader, Taha al-Zoubi, in a “tightly executed security operation” in the Damascus countryside. The operation, reportedly carried out in cooperation with a US-led anti-ISIS coalition, targeted an ISIS hideout in Maadamiya, southwest of Damascus.

According to ShareSaveSyria’s SANA news agency, Brigadier General Ahmad al-Dalati, head of internal security in the Damascus countryside, identified the arrested individual as Taha al-Zoubi, also known as Abu Omar Tibiya. Al-Zoubi allegedly served as ISIS’s “wali,” or governor, of Damascus. Several alleged aides were also detained during the raid.

“A suicide belt and a military weapon were seized in his possession,” SANA reported.

While the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has not yet publicly confirmed the operation, Syrian officials are hailing the arrest as a major victory against the remnants of ISIS in the region. Al-Dalati stated the arrest dealt a “crippling blow” to ISIS networks in the capital region, underscoring the “readiness of the security apparatus.”

“We send a clear message to anyone who dares to engage in the project of terrorism or lend support to ISIS: The hand of justice will reach them wherever they are,” Al-Dalati declared.

ISIS, which once controlled vast territories across Iraq and Syria and was notorious for its brutality, has largely been defeated territorially. However, its fighters and militants continue to launch deadly attacks in both countries and globally. The capture of Al-Zoubi highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the group’s remaining influence and capabilities in the region.

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