Moscow, Russia – ISIS-K, a group with links to a recent terror attack at a concert hall in Moscow, has claimed responsibility for the deadly assault. The attack, which took place on Friday, was described as Russia’s worst terror incident in decades. ISIS, also known as the Islamic State group, released graphic footage showing gunmen carrying out the attack, causing widespread shock and condemnation.
ISIS-K was formed in 2015 and has been active in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran. It is a branch of ISIS, the terror group that once controlled a large territory in Syria and Iraq. Despite the fall of ISIS’ self-proclaimed caliphate in Iraq and Syria, the group has evolved into a global terror network with cells in various regions around the world, including Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia.
The ideology of ISIS-K mirrors that of its parent organization, aiming to establish a “pure Islamic state” governed by Sharia law. The group’s vision includes creating a global caliphate, similar to the goals of ISIS. While the connection between ISIS-K and ISIS is apparent in their shared ideology and tactics, the specifics of their relationship, such as the chain of command and control, remain unclear.
Experts believe that ISIS has a longstanding animosity towards Russia and its leader, Putin. Russia has remained a top target for ISIS for many years, with experts pointing to various geopolitical reasons for this hostility. The attack on the concert venue in Moscow underscores the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups like ISIS-K, highlighting the need for continued global efforts to combat extremism and protect civilians.
For more information on ISIS-K and the recent events in Moscow, readers can access additional resources to delve deeper into the origins and activities of this extremist group. The attack in Moscow serves as a reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism and the importance of international cooperation in addressing and preventing such acts of violence.