Islamic State: the terror group's second act

Isis has carried out almost 700 attacks in Syria over the past year, according to one estimate
Ernie Stanton · 3 days ago · 2 minutes read


Isis: The Persistent Threat

Isis's Weakening Grip

President Trump's jubilant display of maps in 2019 seemed to symbolize the imminent demise of the Islamic State. The maps depicted a stark contrast: from swathes of red territory to a solitary white blemish near Baghuz.

The Resurgence

"Aaah, but fate had other plans!" bellows a mischievous narrator. Last week's deadly attack in New Orleans shattered the illusion of Isis's eradication. Analysts have been sounding alarm bells for months, warning of a worrying resurgence.

Global Reach

Like a hydra with many heads, Isis has sprouted new hubs in the Sahel and eastern Africa. Its Afghan affiliate, Isis-K, has claimed responsibility for the horrific Moscow concert hall shooting, claiming the lives of over 145 innocent souls.

Ideological Endurance

Isis's tentacles reach beyond its physical strongholds. Its warped ideology continues to inspire a sprinkle of Western individuals, like stars aligned under a twisted cosmic joke. Last year, thwarted Isis-inspired attacks in the US jumped, pointing to the failure to extinguish the online wildfire of extremist propaganda.

The Challenge of Lone Wolves

"Oh, lone wolves, they're tricky creatures," quips a wise old sage. "All they need is a tiny spark of madness and a lust for bloodshed." Vehicle attacks, like the one in New Orleans, pose a formidable threat. It's as if the terrorists are playing a macabre game of Grand Theft Auto, with human lives as their innocent pawns.

Global Vigilance

"Dear world leaders," a collective voice implores, "let's not forget the lessons we've learned." Preventing Isis from reclaiming its territories will stifle its sinister influence. But will we heed the warnings before it's too late?