ISIS Remains Potent Global Threat After Claiming Islamabad Mosque Attack

The Islamic State, also known as ISIS, claimed responsibility for a deadly suicide bombing at a Shi’ite mosque in Islamabad that killed at least 31 people. It was the worst attack of its kind in Pakistan’s capital in over ten years. The attack has once again drawn attention to the terror group’s continued threat. ISIS is a Sunni extremist organization known for violent attacks worldwide. It uses such strikes to spread fear and publicity.

ISIS emerged in Iraq and Syria and rose to global prominence around 2014. The group declared a so-called “caliphate” and claimed authority over all Muslims. At its peak, it controlled large parts of Iraq and Syria and ruled millions of people. It also displaced al Qaeda as the world’s most feared terror organization. Its rule was marked by extreme brutality and strict enforcement of its version of Islamic law.

Between 2014 and 2017, ISIS operated like a centralized state with its own administration. It carried out public executions, torture, and mass killings to maintain control. A U.S.-led military coalition eventually dismantled its caliphate in Iraq and Syria. Major strongholds like Mosul and Raqqa were recaptured. However, the group was not fully eliminated.

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After losing territory, ISIS shifted to operating through small, secretive cells. It remains active in parts of Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Africa’s Sahel region. Its Khorasan branch, known as ISIS-K, is particularly active in South Asia. The United Nations estimates around 10,000 fighters remain in its core areas. Leadership remains hidden and difficult to track.

ISIS continues to carry out or inspire attacks across the world. Recent incidents linked to the group have occurred in Australia, Syria, Somalia, Niger, and Congo. It often claims responsibility through online platforms like Telegram. Despite territorial losses, the group still poses a serious global security threat. Its ability to strike across regions shows its continued influence.

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