Daesh Reemerges in Syria Amid Worsening Political Instability

Daesh Reemerges in Syria Amid Worsening Political Instability
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As Syria plunges deeper into political turmoil following the collapse of its central government, reports indicate a resurgence of Daesh (ISIS) in the country’s eastern regions.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the extremist Sunni group, defeated more than eight years ago, is regaining strength and adapting new guerrilla-style tactics. Unlike in the past, its members no longer wear identifiable uniforms and now operate in small, dispersed cells — ambushing convoys and carrying out targeted attacks, particularly along roads in northeastern Syria.

The report said the political instability triggered by the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government has created new opportunities for Daesh militants to regroup and expand. As of August 2025, the group reportedly carried out at least 117 attacks across Syria — already surpassing the total number of operations recorded in the previous year.

Field reports identify Deir ez-Zor province as the main hub of Daesh activity, with an estimated 3,000 fighters currently active there.

Military analysts say Daesh’s shift from conventional warfare to guerrilla operations reflects a gradual rebuilding of its battlefield capabilities. Experts cited by The Wall Street Journal attribute the group’s revival to deep distrust among local militias and growing opposition to Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, the self-proclaimed president of Syria.

Weak security structures and infighting among northern factions have created a power vacuum that Daesh is rapidly exploiting. Analysts warn that the group’s comeback poses not only a renewed threat to eastern Syria but also a serious security concern for neighboring countries and the wider Middle East region.