The Islamic State (IS) group, despite being weakened in recent years, is showing signs of renewed activity and influence around the world.
Here's a simple explanation:
Recent Attacks:
New Orleans Truck Attack (2025): A man in the US, who showed an IS flag, drove a truck into a crowd, killing 15 people.
Somalia Military Base Attack (2025): IS claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base that killed over 20 soldiers.
Other Attacks: IS has also been linked to other recent attacks, including a concert hall attack in Russia and bombings in Iran.
"Lone Wolf" Attacks: IS continues to inspire individuals to carry out attacks on their own in Western countries. For example, an Austrian teenager planned an attack on a Taylor Swift concert after pledging allegiance to IS.
IS's History: At its peak (2014-2017), IS controlled large areas of Syria and Iraq. Their leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, declared himself the leader of all Muslims ("caliph"). After military action led by the US, IS lost most of its territory, and al-Baghdadi was killed in 2019.
How IS Operates Now: Since losing its territory, IS has changed its tactics. They now work through smaller, independent groups and use quick attacks. They still have an estimated 10,000 fighters, and many foreign fighters have joined their branch in Afghanistan (ISIS-K).
IS in Africa: IS is also becoming more active in Africa. A group in Uganda called the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which is connected to IS, has carried out several attacks, including a school massacre. IS also has influence in other parts of Africa, like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Overall Threat: While the US says that the overall threat from IS has decreased because their most dangerous leaders have been removed, they are still active in many places, especially in Africa, and could spread further.
In simple terms: Even though IS has lost most of the land it used to control, it is still a threat. It is carrying out attacks and inspiring individuals to commit violence in different parts of the world. The group is changing its tactics and expanding its influence in Africa, which is a major concern