
ISIS ambush in Syria's Raqqa: Asayish officer killed, two wounded
The assault, which marks an escalation in militant activity in areas controlled by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), killed one officer and injured two others, the monitor affirmed.
ISIS sleeper cells have carried out 38 attacks in SDF-held territories since the start of 2025, including shootings, targeted assaults, and bombings. These incidents have claimed 14 lives, including 10 SDF members and four ISIS militants, raising concerns about growing violence in the region, according to SOHR.

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Israeli and Syrian officials hold talks in Azerbaijan
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Trump says Mexico, EU to face 30% tariff from Aug 1
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Shafaq News
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Southern Lebanon hit: Hezbollah operatives killed in Israeli strikes
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