The radical Islamic State group, notorious for its reign of terror in Syria and Iraq, has been linked to a devastating truck attack in New Orleans that left 15 dead and around 30 injured. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas and former Afghanistan serviceman, was reportedly flying an Islamic State flag during the assault. President Joe Biden revealed that the FBI had informed him of Jabbar’s social media posts expressing admiration for the Islamic State just hours before the attack.
Recent Operations
The Islamic State group recently claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base in Somalia’s Puntland region, killing 22 military personnel. Despite being largely crushed by a U.S.-led coalition, IS has managed to carry out significant attacks, including a concert hall assault in Russia and bombings in Iran and Oman. The group has also inspired lone wolf attacks in the West, such as a planned attack on a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna.
History
At its peak from 2014-2017, the IS “caliphate” controlled vast areas of Syria and Iraq, imposing brutal rule and inspiring global terror attacks. Its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, declared himself “caliph” before being killed by U.S. forces in 2019. The caliphate eventually collapsed under sustained military pressure, and the group’s new leader, Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, remains largely unknown.
New Tactics in the Middle East
Following its setbacks, IS has shifted to operating in autonomous cells and launching hit-and-run attacks. The group has a significant presence in Afghanistan, Syria, and Pakistan, with its Khorasan branch becoming particularly formidable under the leadership of Sanaullah Ghafari.
Africa
IS has also established a presence in Africa, with affiliates in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and across the Sahel. The group has carried out numerous attacks, including a massacre at a Ugandan boarding school and a raid in northern Somalia.
Overall Strength
The U.S. National Counterterrorism Center reports that while IS’s threat level has decreased, its branches remain active in insurgencies across Africa and may be poised for further expansion. The group has lost several leaders and senior operatives, contributing to a decline in attacks in the Middle East.