Intensifying Extremism: UN Report Highlights Growing Terror Threats in Africa and Beyond

A new report from the United Nations highlights the growing threat posed by Islamic State and al-Qaeda extremists, with a particular focus on Africa and Syria. The report underscores how both groups view Syria as a strategic hub for external operations.

The document, addressed to the UN Security Council, points out that al-Qaeda-linked groups such as JNIM in West Africa and al-Shabab in East Africa continue to expand their territories. This shift to Africa comes as a result of counterterrorism efforts weakening the Islamic State's presence in the Middle East.

In Europe and the Americas, the Islamic State continues to pose the most significant threat. Attacks are often carried out by individuals radicalized online or via encrypted messaging platforms by the IS Khorasan group based in Afghanistan. Concerns grow over terrorist fighters returning to Central Asia and Afghanistan, potentially destabilizing the region further.

(With inputs from agencies.)