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UN says ISIS-K remains key threat to international security
The United Nations Secretary-General in a recent report has warned that ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K) remains a key threat to international security.
Several members of the United Nations Security Council in a recent meeting have also raised alarm over the growing threat posed by ISIS-K in Afghanistan, Europe, and Central Asia. They warn that the group remains actively engaged in recruiting fighters and soliciting financial support across these regions.
Dorothy Shea, Acting U.S. Representative to the UN, told the Security Council: “ISIL-K’s recruitment of minors, determination to conduct global terror attacks, and its reign of bombings throughout South Asia and Europe is abhorrent and unacceptable.”
The meeting was held to discuss the 21st report of the UN Secretary-General on the threat posed by ISIS. The report warns that despite the killing of several of its top leaders, ISIS continues to retain significant operational capability.
Vladimir Voronkov, UN Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, said: “In Afghanistan, ISIL-Khorasan continues to represent one of the most serious threats to Central Asia and beyond. The group has targeted civilians, minority groups, and foreign nationals, while exploiting discontent with the de facto authorities.”
Representatives from China, Pakistan, and other countries echoed the concerns, calling on the Islamic Emirate to take stronger measures against terrorism.
Geng Shuang, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, said: “We call on countries in the region to enhance political trust and make full use of platforms, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, to strengthen practical counter-terrorism cooperation. We noted that the United States Government has recently designated BLA and its Majeed Brigade as terrorist organizations. We hope the Council can follow suit and include this organization in the 1267 sanctions list as soon as possible.”
Pakistan’s UN representative, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, while acknowledging that the Islamic Emirate has been fighting ISIS-K, said the threat from various other terrorist groups, TTP and Baloch militant groups, which have sought refuge in ungoverned spaces in Afghanistan, remains unaddressed.
In response, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has rejected the claims, stating that ISIS has no operational presence in the country and that such reports are exaggerated and serve only to promote fear.
The head of IEA’s intelligence agency recently reiterated that ISIS, although once imposed on Afghanistan, has now been eliminated.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the temporary ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan announced in connection with the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, calling for continued efforts to reduce tensions and achieve lasting peace.
Anwar shared the message during a telephone conversation with his Pakistani counterpart, Shehbaz Sharif. In a Facebook post, Anwar emphasized the importance of dialogue and de-escalation, while also expressing concern over rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, and urging all parties to prioritize peaceful solutions.
Pakistan said it had temporarily suspended military operations in Afghanistan at the request of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey. Afghan authorities likewise announced a halt to operations during Eid, citing goodwill and similar requests from regional partners.
The ceasefire follows weeks of heightened tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, including Durand Line clashes and airstrikes.
Separately, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call discussed regional developments with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reaffirming Turkey’s commitment to peace and stability and stressing continued cooperation for long-term security.
In his Persian New Year message, Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, on Friday highlighted the importance of Afghanistan and Pakistan, saying the two neighbors were “very close” to Iran.
Khamenei also made a direct appeal for improved relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, describing them as “two brotherly countries.” He urged both nations to work toward better cooperation and understanding, stressing that such efforts are important “for the sake of divine pleasure and to avoid division among Muslims.”
Underscoring his commitment, he added that he is personally “ready to take the necessary steps” to help facilitate stronger ties between the two countries.
In recent months, tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have risen over security issues, with cross-Durand Line clashes, airstrikes, and accusations about militant activity.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, announced on Friday that a 2.5-ton consignment, including emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits, and equipment has been delivered to Kabul.
According to him, the aid shipment is intended to support the swift recovery of those injured in the recent airstrike by Pakistan’s military regime.
He emphasized that India stands with the people of Afghanistan and will continue to provide all possible humanitarian assistance.
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