United Nations counter-terrorism officials have informed the Security Council that strong international cooperation and concrete action are vital to defeating the expansive and adaptive network of Da'esh. The UN warned that the terrorist group continues to pose a serious threat to international peace and security.
Oguljeren Niyazberdiyeva, chief of the Office of the Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, told the UN Security Council that ISIS has continued to adapt as its structure becomes increasingly dispersed. According to Niyazberdiyeva, the group continues to exploit fragile security environments and protracted armed conflicts.
Niyazberdiyeva stated that the threat remains particularly acute in parts of Africa, specifically in the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin. In these regions, several ISIS affiliates are reportedly strengthening their capabilities, expanding their operational reach, and adapting their tactics. Additionally, she noted that the evolving political and security landscape in Syria continues to reshape the threat environment.
Security concerns were raised following the February closure of the northern Syrian al-Hol Camp, which Niyazberdiyeva said left the whereabouts of thousands of individuals unclear. She indicated that this closure underscores the secretary-general's call for safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation conducted in accordance with international law.
Regarding Iraq, Niyazberdiyeva explained that continued counter-terrorism pressure has significantly constrained ISIS' capabilities. However, she stressed the necessity of consolidating those gains through strong institutions, justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration efforts.
Carmen Cantor, deputy executive director of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, also addressed the Security Council. Cantor stated that ISIS and its affiliates have remained resilient and adaptive despite sustained counter-terrorism pressure, noting that Africa continues to bear a disproportionate share of the impact.
Cantor echoed concerns regarding the closure of the al-Hol camp, stating it highlighted with even more urgency the complexity of addressing the situation of former ISIS affiliates and their family members. She also warned that emerging technologies are actively reshaping the threat landscape.
According to UN officials, terrorist groups are increasingly exploiting artificial intelligence, encrypted communications, digital platforms, virtual assets, and unmanned aircraft systems. Cantor added that these groups use social media, encrypted messaging, gaming ecosystems, and AI-enabled tools for propaganda, recruitment, fundraising, and operational purposes.
Cantor explained that propaganda has become an operational enabler, helping terrorist groups recruit supporters, mobilize resources, and extend their reach across borders. She concluded that the threat posed by ISIS has not receded and can only be effectively countered through sustained international cooperation and a comprehensive approach.
