**ISIS Launches First Attacks on Syrian Forces Under New Government**

In a recent escalation, ISIS has launched two assaults on Syrian security forces, marking the first such incidents since Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former jihadist, assumed office of the transitional government. The terrorist organization, also known as Islamic State, claimed responsibility for the attacks.

According to ISIS, the initial strike involved an explosive device that targeted members of the Syrian regime, resulting in seven casualties, both killed and injured. The attack took place in Talul al Safa, a remote desert region in Syria’s southern Suwayda province.

A military source from Suwayda confirmed to CNN that a reconnaissance unit from the Free Syrian Army, which receives support from the U.S. military, was ambushed while monitoring ISIS activities. The ambush resulted in the death of one fighter and injuries to three others. This unit operates within the al Tanf Deconfliction Zone, an area near the borders of Jordan and Egypt where the U.S. has a small military presence.

The source described the Talul al Safa area as extremely perilous, noting that ISIS has long taken advantage of the rugged terrain. Despite losing almost all of its occupied territory in Syria by 2017, ISIS has managed to maintain a presence in Syria’s vast central desert.

ISIS claimed another attack in the same area just days ago. Meanwhile, the Syrian Interior Ministry reported last week that security forces seized improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and weapons from a terrorist cell linked to ISIS in a nearby region.

The Washington DC-based Institute for the Study of War noted that ISIS has likely sustained cells in southern Syria, even though they hadn't conducted any attacks there in the past two years. International governments, including the U.S., have urged Syria's new administration to curb the resurgence of ISIS and other terror groups. However, extending governmental control to Suwayda has been challenging due to ongoing conflicts between Druze and Sunni factions.