Syrian security forces announced that a pre‑emptive operation, carried out in cooperation with the country’s Internal Security Forces, disrupted a plot aimed at the Homs oil refinery, one of the nation’s two major petroleum facilities. The operation led to the arrest of two individuals, identified only by the initials M S and B Sh, and the seizure of explosive devices that had been prepared for the attack.
The General Intelligence Service (GIS) confirmed the arrests on its X account, noting that the seized explosives were intended to target the refinery. The statement did not disclose the exact time or location of the operation.
Hezbollah, the Lebanese armed group, denied any involvement in the plot. In a statement, the organization reiterated that it has no presence on Syrian territory and is not engaged in activities that undermine Syrian security and stability.
Hezbollah’s relationship with the Syrian government has deteriorated since the ousting of former President Bashar al‑Assad in 2024, after the group had fought alongside his forces during the nearly 14‑year civil war. Syrian authorities have previously accused Hezbollah of involvement in a series of alleged plots, including planned assassinations, rocket attacks and arms smuggling.
The Homs refinery plays a key role in securing petroleum products for the country. The refinery, along with the Baniyas refinery, is critical to Syria’s energy infrastructure, which has faced a number of attacks in recent months.
In related security actions, the GIS also arrested members of an ISIL cell in Deir Az Zor and seized weapons and ammunition linked to a series of assassinations in the province. Earlier in September, the agency detained four ISIL members involved in attacks across the country. These operations underscore the ongoing threat to Syria’s energy and security sectors.
Source: Al Jazeera
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Editorial note: This is an original news report prepared from the attributed source material with AI assistance. It is not a reproduction or translation of the original article.
