Syrian Security Forces Claim Disruption of Sabotage Cell at Homs Oil Refinery

Syrian intelligence and security forces have foiled a planned attack against the Homs oil refinery, according to statements released by authorities in Damascus. The General Intelligence Service stated that a joint operation with Internal Security Forces resulted in the arrest of two individuals accused of operating a cell affiliated with Lebanon's Hezbollah.

The intelligence agency identified the suspects by their initials, M. S. and B. Sh., and confirmed the seizure of explosive devices prepared for the operation. Hezbollah issued a statement denying the allegations, stating that it maintains no presence in Syria and is not involved in activities that undermine the country's stability. Relations between Damascus and Hezbollah have deteriorated following the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in 2024, despite the group having fought alongside his forces during Syria's civil war.

The facility in Homs, alongside the refinery in Baniyas, is one of two oil refineries in Syria providing petroleum products. Syrian energy infrastructure has suffered multiple targeted disruptions in recent weeks. On October 15, damage to the pipeline carrying petroleum products from Baniyas to Homs caused a fuel leak near the village of Hadida. Earlier, on September 30, an explosion on a gas line at the Tishreen station temporarily forced the Tishreen, Deir Ali, and Nasiriya power stations out of service.

Security forces have also conducted operations targeting ISIL cells in eastern Syria. On Sunday, intelligence officials stated that two suspected ISIL members were detained in Deir Az Zor governorate following an investigation into targeted killings, including the shooting of defense ministry member Ibrahim al-Jassem near the al-Rashid mosque in Mayadin. Additional arrests occurred on September 27, when four suspected members of another ISIL cell were taken into custody. Damascus joined the US-led international coalition against ISIL last November.

Written by Andreas Hofer andreas.hofer@alpineweekly.com