US New Orleans Attack: The incident of a truck running over people during New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans showed that extremist groups like ISIS still have the ability to promote their violent activities. The most shocking thing about the attack was that ISIS flags were found in the attacker’s car, which is a matter of concern. According to Reuters report, ISIS may have suffered heavy losses from the US-led coalition. Between 2014 and 2017, when ISIS was at its peak, it captured large parts of Iraq and Syria. Had expanded its influence throughout the Middle East. Its leader at that time, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, had declared himself Caliph.
The organization was hit hard by Baghdadi’s death and military operations in 2019, but has since fragmented its network, making it difficult to accurately estimate its size and strength. The United Nations estimates that its number is around 10,000.
ISIS’s efforts to rise again
The US-led coalition still continues military operations against ISIS. Yet the organization has maintained its influence through isolated attacks and in limited areas. In recent months, the New Orleans attack and other major attacks have seen an increase in its activities. The attack on a Russian music hall in March 2024 and the bombings in the Iranian city of Kerman in January 2024 highlight the strength of the ISIS terrorist network. US officials have warned that ISIS has once again activated external conspiracies and media operations. Additionally, geopolitical conditions such as the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza have also created a favorable environment for jihadi recruitment.
New Orleans attack and Jabbar connection
Shamsuddin Bahar Jabbar, a Texas resident and former US Army soldier who served in Afghanistan. He carried out the attack in New Orleans. Jabbar has been confirmed to be inspired by ISIS, and his radical ideology is under investigation. In recent months, US intelligence agencies have also warned of plans to target large public gatherings that are sponsored by extremist groups.
ISIS expansion and future challenges
Amid concerns of ISIS reorganizing, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned that the organization may try to reestablish its capabilities. Additionally, the group’s activities are increasing in Africa, where the influx of foreign fighters and local recovery is strengthening the organization. Although experts believe ISIS is unlikely to recapture large-scale areas, it will remain a threat through small, organized attacks. Limited territorial control may be possible in Africa, but it is not considered a sign of a widespread withdrawal of ISIS.
Also read: ‘Stayed in the American Army, was posted in Afghanistan’, who is the Jabbar who terrorized the US?
