Damascus claims to arrest more Hezbollah-linked cell members behind plot to kill rabbi

Syrian state media reports the successful apprehension of five additional individuals linked to a Hezbollah cell, accused of plotting to assassinate a rabbi in Damascus. The Interior Ministry stated that the arrests, made on Saturday, are part of ongoing efforts to maintain security and thwart terrorist activities within the country.

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a religious figure in the vicinity of the Maronite Church in Bab Touma on April 11.

The targeted individual was identified by Israeli media as Rabbi Michael Khoury, though Syrian state media described the target more broadly as a "religious figure." The operation also led to the discovery of a significant cache of weapons and explosives, which authorities claim were prepared for use in attacks designed to destabilize the region.

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prepared for use in planned attacks aimed at undermining security in the area.

Hezbollah has officially denied any connection to the cell or any operational presence in Syria. Meanwhile, Joe Jajati, founder of the Syrian Mosaic Foundation, expressed that while the threat is concerning, it is not surprising given the rhetoric from radical factions. He credited the vigilance of local residents and the decisive action of security forces for preventing a tragedy, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in ensuring safety.

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that it has no activity, affiliation, or relationship with any party in Syria, and no presence on Syrian soil.