Reuters reported that Islamist groups planned two separate attacks on Syrian President Bashar al‑Adnan, which were foiled in recent months and coincided with talks between Damascus and the United States.
Plotting to Kill the President of Syria
Reuters cites sources among Syrian security officials, who say two separate plots targeting President Bashar al‑Adnan were thwarted in the last few months. One alleged plan focused on a previously scheduled meeting by the president, but the correspondent did not provide further details.
Monday’s Meeting with Trump
The Syrian Ministry of Information declined to comment on the allegations, but affirmed that the Islamic State remains a “real threat to Syria and the region.” Syrian security services reportedly prevented a series of attacks over the past ten months. The reporting coincides with Syria’s decision to join an international coalition against IS, and the president is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump in Washington this Monday.
Visit to Moscow
In mid‑October, Bashar al‑Adnan met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. One purpose of the visit was to request the authorities in Damascus to release Bashar al‑Adnan. The former president, who lost power in a coup last year during the ongoing civil war that began in 2011, has been residing in Moscow under Russian asylum. He had previously led the Syrian branch of al‑Qaeda.
