Syrian Intelligence Claims Thwarting ISIL Bombing Attempt on Holy Shrine Sayyida Zeinab, peace be upon her

Syrian authorities say they have successfully foiled an attempt by ISIL (ISIS) to bomb the Sayyida Zeinab holy shrine, peace be upon her, in a Damascus suburb, Al Jazeera reported. Intelligence sources reported that several individuals were arrested in connection with the plot.

The General Intelligence Directorate emphasized its commitment to protecting the diverse Syrian populace from extremist threats. Images released by the interior ministry showed four alleged ISIL members apprehended in the countryside, along with weapons, explosive devices, and smartphones.

The Sayyida Zeinab shrine, peace be upon her, is a significant religious site for Shia Muslims, housing the tomb of the granddaughter of the Holy Prophet, peace be upon him and his family. This site has been targeted multiple times in the past, including a deadly car bombing in 2008 that killed 17 people, and a double suicide attack in February 2016 that claimed 134 lives.

Shia shrines continue to be prime targets for Sunni extremist groups like ISIL in both Syria and Iraq. Recent reports indicate a withdrawal of Iran-backed guards from the shrine’s gates, raising concerns about security as Sunni-led rebels advance in the region. Despite all, her blessed shrine is still open to devotees of Ahl al-Bayt, peace be upon them, and efforts are underway to uphold her martyrdom anniversary in the middle of the blessed month of Rajab in utmost magnificence.