**Deadly Terrorist Attack in Russia’s Dagestan Republic**
At least 15 police officers and four civilians were killed in a terrorist attack on June 23 in Russia’s Dagestan Republic. The attacks occurred in the capital city of Makhachkala and the nearby city of Derbent.
The Russian Investigative Committee (Sledcom) said that six terrorists had been “eliminated”, while local authorities claimed that five had been killed. A 66-year-old priest, Father Nikolay, was also among those killed.
**Background of Violence in Dagestan**
Dagestan has a history of violence and terrorism, dating back to the early 2000s when it saw repeated acts of terrorism due to the spillover from wars in Chechnya. The area has a multi-ethnic population and is home to an ancient Jewish community.
**Recent Tensions**
In October 2023, there was a massive anti-Semitic riot in Makhachkala after a flight from Tel Aviv landed at the airport. More than 20 people were injured, with at least 10 suffering moderate to serious injuries.
A counterterrorism regime was instituted after militants allegedly fired on an Orthodox church and a police post in Russia’s Dagestan Republic, according to local authorities.
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