Several places of worship in Russia's Dagestan were targeted in attacks, resulting in the deaths of a priest and seven security personnel.

On a quiet Sunday in Dagestan, a region in Russia, a series of violent attacks shook the community. According to reports, two Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a traffic police station were targeted, resulting in the tragic deaths of a priest and at least seven security personnel, including six local policemen.

In response to these attacks, a counter-terrorism operation has been launched in Dagestan. The situation is still ongoing, with gunfire and flames still being reported at some of the targeted sites. RT, a Russian news outlet, shared that the attacks took place in the regional capital of Makhachkala and the city of Derbent. The Russian authorities have labeled the assailants as members of an "international terrorist organization", but have not provided any further details at this time.

Initial reports stated that unidentified individuals opened fire on the religious buildings in Makhachkala before fleeing in a vehicle. However, it has since been reported by RIA Novosti that intense fighting has broken out near the church in Makhachkala. There are also unconfirmed reports that about 40 people are currently being held hostage inside the church. The situation is still developing, and authorities have not yet confirmed these claims.

In addition to the attacks on the religious buildings, a traffic police station in the center of Makhachkala was also targeted, resulting in several casualties among police officials. The fatalities occurred in both Makhachkala and Derbent.

Tragically, a 66-year-old Orthodox priest lost his life in the attack on the church in Derbent. Earlier, a local public official stated that the attackers had slit the priest's throat. The synagogue in Derbent was also set on fire, and firefighters have been unable to approach the building due to the fear of attackers still being inside. RIA Novosti reported that gunfire could still be heard near the synagogue.

Videos of the attack on the police officers in Derbent have circulated on social media platforms. In the footage, loud gunfire can be heard as police cars are seen parked down the street. The law enforcement officers bravely retaliated against the assailants in an attempt to protect their community.

Witnesses have reported that gunfire can still be heard in central Derbent, and local law enforcement officers are still actively fighting against the attackers near the Orthodox church. In response to these tragic events, local Muslim leaders have condemned the attacks. The North Caucasus Muslim Coordination Council chief described the assailants as "brutal and hateful beasts", while the Chechen Republic chief, Ramzan Kadyrov, labeled the attacks as a "villainous provocation" aimed at causing division among religions. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time.

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