According to a recent report by the United Nations, five separate attempts to assassinate Syrian president Ahmed al-Sharaa and his senior ministers were thwarted last year. These plots were primarily linked to Saraya Ansar al-Sunnah, an Islamic State (IS) affiliate that had previously bombed churches in Damascus. The details indicate that Sharaa was specifically targeted twice, once in northern Aleppo and again in southern Daraa, showcasing the persistent threats he faces amid ongoing instability in Syria.

The intelligence that helped prevent these assassination attempts reportedly came from a neighboring country, underscoring the role of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges in Syria. With the backing of international support, Syria's internal security forces were able to act on this information to avert what could have been significant upheavals in the already tumultuous political landscape. The report also highlights the increasing determination of IS in the region, as they aim to eliminate figures like Sharaa who they consider apostates.

The narrative surrounding Sharaa has become increasingly complex since the fall of Assad in December 2024, as IS has intensified its recruitment efforts. The group has framed Sharaa’s alignment with Western powers and his past as a leader of an Islamist rebel group as a betrayal of Islamic principles, further justifying their hostile actions against him. This situation not only poses risks for Sharaa but also highlights the ongoing volatility in Syria and the challenges faced by both local and international actors in stabilizing the region.