A recent UN report has raised alarms about the growing threat posed by the Islamic State (ISIL/Da’esh), particularly in India. While the group has not been able to execute large-scale attacks, its handlers have been actively inciting lone-wolf attacks through local sympathizers. According to the 35th report of the UN Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, ISIL and Al-Qaida continue to remain resilient despite global counter-terrorism efforts.
One of the key concerns outlined in the report is the role of Al-Jauhar Media. This pro-ISIL propaganda outlet has been spreading anti-India narratives through its publication Serat ul-Haq. This reflects the terror group’s persistent attempts to radicalize individuals and maintain its presence in the region.
The report also underscores the ongoing security risks originating from Afghanistan, where over two dozen terrorist organizations remain active. ISIL-Khorasan Province (ISIL-K) has been highlighted as a major destabilizing force, targeting ethnic minorities, foreign nationals, UN personnel, and even the Taliban regime.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for stronger global cooperation to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a hub for terrorist activities that could affect neighboring countries and beyond. With ISIL-K expanding its reach into Central and South Asia, particularly recruiting members from Tajikistan, the situation demands urgent international attention and coordinated action.
