Gunmen carried out a series of attacks on synagogues, Orthodox churches, and a police post in Russia's North Caucasus region of Dagestan on Sunday. The armed assaults in Derbent and Makhachkala resulted in casualties among both police officers and civilians, prompting the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation to launch a terrorism investigation.
Reports indicated that a 66-year-old priest was found with his throat slashed at an Orthodox church, while at least two police officers were killed and six individuals were wounded in the attacks. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the coordinated attacks in Dagestan province, with synagogues and churches targeted in the violence.
Footage circulating online depicted buildings engulfed in flames and gunmen engaging in shootouts with law enforcement. The incidents occurred in Derbent and Makhachkala, with reports of gunfire exchanged at a synagogue and an Orthodox church, both significant sites in the region.
The attacks, which aimed to destabilize the social situation according to local authorities, were not immediately linked to any specific group. However, concerns have been raised about the presence of Islamic militants, particularly ISIS-K, in the area.
The recent violence in Russia follows FBI Director Christopher Wray's warning of an increased terror threat post the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Hamas attack on southern Israel. The potential for coordinated attacks, similar to past incidents like the assault on Moscow's Crocus City concert hall, remains a cause for alarm.
As the world grapples with the resurgence of extremist violence, the need to combat antisemitism and protect religious communities has been underscored. The attacks in Dagestan serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by terrorism and the importance of international cooperation in addressing such challenges.
