IS Attacks Syrian Forces After Assad's Ouster

The Islamic State (IS) group claimed responsibility for two bomb attacks in Sweida province, southern Syria, including its first assault against government forces since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December. The attacks targeted a Syrian military vehicle, resulting in multiple soldiers killed or wounded, and also struck members of the US-backed Free Syrian Army. War monitors have confirmed these incidents, noting that IS had previously focused its operations on Kurdish-led forces. The new Damascus government, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, is considered illegitimate by IS, increasing regional tensions. Although IS lost territorial control in 2019, its sleeper cells have stepped up activity, causing international alarm. In response, Syrian authorities have begun dismantling IS cells and increasing security measures amid fears of a wider resurgence.