U.S. forces are intensifying efforts to combat a resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria, according to U.S. and allied officials. Despite the group’s near defeat in 2019, ISIS has been rebuilding its forces and launching attacks at an alarming rate.
General Rohilat Afrin, co-commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), described to the Wall Street Journal this year as “the worst year since we defeated Islamic State,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The terrorist group is actively recruiting and attempting to free imprisoned fighters, with over 153 attacks already claimed in Syria and Iraq in the first half of 2024.
Read: Two Somalian Men Living In Arizona Wanted To Fight For ISIS
U.S. and SDF forces are working in tandem to disrupt ISIS operations. SDF forces have captured 233 suspected ISIS terrorists this year, often with U.S. intelligence and surveillance support. The U.S. has also conducted airstrikes and assisted in other strikes against the group.
The situation is further complicated by calls from Iraqi leaders for a complete U.S. withdrawal. U.S. officials fear such a move would lead to chaos and empower ISIS sleeper cells.
Read: U.S. Designates Key ISIS Financiers In Africa To Disrupt Terrorist Funding, Imposes Sanctions
The recent Hamas invasion of Israel and the ensuing regional conflict have added another layer of complexity. U.S. and allied forces have faced over 170 attacks in the region since October 7th, underscoring the volatile and dangerous environment.
“We’ll see chaos like we’ve never seen before,” Brig. Gen. Ali al-Hassan, spokesman for the U.S. forces in northern Syria, told the WSJ. “Any withdrawal will cause the immediate activation of sleeper cells.”
The U.S. and its allies face a formidable challenge in quelling this ISIS resurgence amidst a broader regional conflict. The situation in Syria remains precarious, and the need for a coordinated and sustained effort to counter the terrorist threat is more critical than ever.
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