New York: The United Nations counterterrorism officials have warned that the Islamic State’s Khorasan branch (ISIS-K), based in Afghanistan, continues to pose a “major” threat not only to the region but also to global security.
During a UN Security Council meeting convened to assess the threat of ISIS and its affiliated groups worldwide, officials described ISIS-K as "the most dangerous branch" of the global terrorist organization. The group has launched significant attacks against both civilians and the Taliban in Afghanistan.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the meeting to discuss his latest six-month strategic report on ISIS threats, particularly in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Vladimir Voronkov, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Counterterrorism, highlighted the transnational danger of ISIS-K, stating that the group is actively recruiting in Central Asia and has planned attacks in European countries. He also noted reports suggesting that foreign terrorist fighters are still traveling to Afghanistan. Voronkov urged all UN member states to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a "safe haven for terrorist activities" once again.
Dorothy Shea, the U.S. representative to the Security Council, echoed concerns over ISIS-K’s global reach, warning that the group has the capability to recruit militants not only in Afghanistan but also in neighboring Pakistan.
Meanwhile, China's representative suggested that ISIS-K collaborates with other terrorist organizations, including Al-Qaeda and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, within Afghanistan. However, he did not provide further details.
This UN report raises fresh concerns about Afghanistan’s security situation and the potential resurgence of global terrorism threats.
