U.N. Warns of Rising ISIS Threats in Africa and Beyond

Vladimir Voronkov, a top U.N. counterterrorism official, reported to the Security Council that the Islamic State (IS) group is expanding its influence in Africa, particularly in West Africa and the Sahel, The Associated Press reported yesterday. He cautioned that if this trend continues, a vast territory from Mali to northern Nigeria could fall under IS control.

Voronkov highlighted a surge in terrorist attacks in Mozambique, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, resulting in significant civilian casualties. He noted that ISIS-K, the group’s affiliate in Afghanistan, has enhanced its financial and logistical capabilities, intensifying recruitment efforts and claiming responsibility for attacks in Iraq and Syria.

Additionally, Austrian authorities reported a plot involving two suspects inspired by IS and al-Qaida targeting an event in Vienna, though no direct link to IS was established. Voronkov urged for inclusive, multilateral responses to counter terrorism, emphasizing the urgent need to address dire conditions in northeastern Syria and repatriate nationals.