Moscow, Russia – ISIS, also known as the Islamic State group, has claimed responsibility for the recent deadly attack on a concert venue in Moscow, showcasing gruesome footage of the gunmen carrying out what is considered Russia’s worst terror attack in decades. The group, ISIS-K, was formed in 2015 and has been actively operating in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran as a branch of ISIS, which originally emerged in Syria and Iraq. Despite the fall of ISIS’ self-proclaimed caliphate five years ago, the group has evolved into a global terror network with cells across various regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia.
The connection between ISIS and ISIS-K remains murky, with shared ideologies and tactics, but without a clear establishment of the relationship between the groups in terms of command and control. ISIS-K, like its parent organization, aims to establish a “pure Islamic state” governed by Sharia law, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The group envisions a global transnational caliphate under its rule.
Experts have noted that ISIS has targeted Russia and its leader, Putin, for years, with a deep animosity towards the country. Daniel Byman, director of Georgetown University’s security studies program, highlighted Russia’s consistent presence at the top of ISIS’ list of adversaries.
As the investigation into the Moscow attack unfolds, the focus remains on unraveling the extent of ISIS-K’s network and its potential ties to other terror groups. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by such extremist organizations, despite efforts to counter their influence globally.
Further details on the motives behind the attack, as well as insights into ISIS-K’s operations and goals, continue to emerge as authorities delve deeper into the complexities of the situation. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by nations in combatting terrorism and highlights the urgency of international cooperation in addressing such threats effectively.