Islamic State attacks Syrian government forces for the first time since Assad's fall

In southern Syria, the Islamic State (IS) group has taken responsibility for two recent attacks, marking a significant moment since the fall of longtime leader Bashar Assad. The first attack, which occurred on May 22 in the al-Safa area of the Sweida province, targeted a vehicle belonging to the Syrian army. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, this attack resulted in casualties, including seven soldiers either dead or wounded. The second bombing took place in the same region against members of the U.S.-backed Free Syrian Army, resulting in one combatant's death and three injuries. Comment on the attacks from governmental representatives has yet to be made, highlighting the contentious dynamics between IS and the current ruling authority in Damascus, led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaida leader. This recent claim from IS underscores the ongoing volatile situation in Syria and indicates that the group may be regaining influence in areas they once controlled. The Islamic State was defeated in March 2019 when the Syrian Democratic Forces captured the last territory held by IS. However, their sleeper cells have remained active, causing significant security concerns over the last few years. Notably, a January report indicated that Syrian intelligence had recently thwarted another planned attack by IS targeting a Shiite shrine south of Damascus. Furthermore, during a recent meeting, President Ahmad al-Sharaa discussed with U.S. President Donald Trump potential easing of sanctions against Syria, which could have implications for how the government approaches the threat posed by IS and other extremist groups in the country.