ISIS Reconstituting as Attacks Double in Syria and Iraq
The U.S. Central Command has reported that the Islamic State group is increasing its attacks in Syria and Iraq and is attempting “to reconstitute” following a period of decreased capability. In the first six months of 2024, ISIS claimed 153 attacks in both countries, compared to 121 attacks in 2023.
At its peak, ISIS controlled a vast territory where it enforced its extreme interpretation of Islam, committing atrocities against religious minority groups and engaging in human trafficking and sexual abuse. A coalition of countries, led by the United States, successfully pushed ISIS out of its hold on Iraqi and Syrian territories in 2017 and 2019, respectively.
Despite these losses, ISIS sleeper cells remain active in both countries, prompting ongoing concerns. Iraqi officials are in discussions with the U.S. to potentially wind down the U.S.-led military coalition’s mission in Iraq, amid tensions over the U.S. military presence.
Recent drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria, purportedly by Iran-backed militias, have added to the complexity of the situation. The threat of ISIS reconstitution underscores the ongoing challenges in the region and the importance of international cooperation to combat terrorism.
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