Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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February 4, 2026 Peace and security
At a UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday, Alexander Zuev, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, presented the Secretary-General's report on the threat posed by ISIS. He stated that the situation is deteriorating: the group is demonstrating resilience, expanding its presence in some regions, and actively mastering new technologies.
Africa is the epicenter of ISIS's growing influence
Zuev noted that in recent months, ISIS and its affiliated structures “continue to adapt and demonstrate resilience, despite constant counter-terrorism pressure.”
The group is increasing its recruitment of foreign fighters, raising funds through illegal extortion, extortion, and kidnapping, and strengthening its position in Africa—particularly in the Sahel, the western part of the continent, and the Lake Chad Basin. ISIS undermines regional stability and limits states' ability to respond to humanitarian, human rights, and economic challenges.
Syria and Iraq: ISIS activity amid humanitarian crisis
ISIS is active in Iraq and Syria, exploiting the power vacuum and intercommunal tensions. The UN is particularly concerned about the situation in camps in northeastern Syria, where thousands of women and children live without water, food, medical care, or education.
“Thousands of people… continue to live in conditions of insecurity, violence, and a severe shortage of basic services,” Zuev emphasized.
The withdrawal of the Syrian Democratic Forces from the Al-Hol camp on January 21, he said, created additional risks for both security and the humanitarian situation.
New technologies
Zuev also said that terrorist groups are increasingly using cryptocurrency, commercial satellite communications, drones, and artificial intelligence tools, primarily to radicalize the population and recruit online.
"Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used by terrorist groups… in particular, to influence young people and children," Zuev noted.
The UN calls on states to intensify cooperation, including on repatriating citizens from Syrian camps, strengthening regional security mechanisms in Africa, and developing comprehensive strategies to prevent extremism. Zuev reiterated that progress is only possible with respect for international law and human rights.
This year, the General Assembly will conduct the ninth review of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. According to Zuev, this is an opportunity for states to "reaffirm their commitment to multilateral efforts" and adapt their approaches to new threats.
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