New York, Feb. 5 (SANA) The UN Security Council warned on Wednesday evening that the threat posed by the ISIS terrorist organization is growing, citing its ability to adapt and expand, and stressed the need for stronger international cooperation to counter terrorism in accordance with international law and human rights.
During a council meeting on threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist activity, members heard UN briefings on recent developments in ISIS operations and the challenges facing global counterterrorism efforts.
Alexandre Zouev, acting under-secretary-general for counterterrorism and head of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, said ISIS remains resilient, continuing to recruit fighters and expand its use of emerging technologies, including digital platforms, artificial intelligence and virtual assets, while maintaining access to funding.
He noted increased activity by ISIS affiliates in Africa, particularly in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, alongside the group’s continued presence in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. Zouev stressed the importance of sustained international cooperation based on the rule of law and respect for human rights.
Natalia Gherman, executive director of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, said the threat remains acute, noting that the past six months have seen ISIS continue to carry out and inspire attacks in several countries.
The U.S. representative expressed deep concern over the evolving threat posed by ISIS and al-Qaeda, calling for intensified efforts to disrupt terrorist financing and urging countries to repatriate foreign terrorist fighters and prosecute them under international law.
Russia’s representative said Moscow supports the secretary-general’s report and warned of the increasing use of unmanned aerial technologies and commercial satellite systems by terrorist groups, while cautioning against any engagement with such groups for geopolitical purposes.
Representatives of the European Union, Greece and Denmark underscored the need for collective international action, highlighting the central role of Syria and Iraq in confronting ISIS and stressing continued support for rehabilitation, reintegration and cooperation to prevent the group’s resurgence.
Council members broadly agreed that countering the ISIS threat requires a comprehensive global response combining security, financial and technological measures, alongside adherence to international law and human rights.
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