New report warns of ISIS rebuilding efforts in Syria and Iraq
New report warns of ISIS rebuilding efforts in Syria and Iraq
ISIS is seeking to exploit the fall of Syria’s Assad regime to regroup and stage a comeback in Syria and Iraq, according to a report published by The Straits Times. The report indicates that more than 20 sources, including officials from Syria, Iraq, the US, and Europe, confirmed the extremist group has begun reactivating fighters, distributing weapons, and stepping up recruitment and propaganda efforts. However, these efforts have seen limited success so far, with security forces in both countries reportedly foiling at least a dozen major plots this year.
Iraqi officials recounted the capture of two ISIS envoys from Syria in December, carrying verbal instructions to initiate attacks. Intelligence from their arrest helped thwart a planned suicide bombing in Daquq. Despite fears of resurgence, the number of ISIS attacks has dropped. In Syria, the group claimed 38 attacks in the first five months of 2025—on track for one-third of 2024’s total. In Iraq, only four attacks were claimed compared to 61 last year.
Security remains fragile. Analysts warn that ISIS is reactivating sleeper cells and relocating fighters from deserts to urban centres like Aleppo and Damascus. There are also concerns over foreign fighters returning to Syria and large weapon stockpiles left by fleeing Assad forces. The Syrian government, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, faces challenges consolidating control amid sectarian violence, Israeli airstrikes, and clashes with Kurdish forces.
US and Iraqi officials stressed the importance of continued pressure to prevent ISIS from regaining a foothold. While its current capabilities are limited, officials cautioned the group remains resilient and skilled at exploiting instability. The UN estimates ISIS maintains 1,500–3,000 fighters in Syria and Iraq, though its most active branches are now in Africa.
