Isis is an acronym for the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, which is a jihadist extremist group that emerged in the early 21st century. ISIS seeks to establish a caliphate, a religious and political state governed by strict Sharia law, across the Middle East, with its ultimate aim being global domination. It is recognized as a terrorist organization by numerous countries and international bodies.
ISIS originated as an offshoot of Al-Qaeda, but quickly gained prominence for its brutal tactics and territorial gains. The group uses intense violence, including public executions, beheadings, and mass killings, as a means to spread fear and control over the territories it captures. They have also been known to carry out numerous suicide bombings and attacks on civilian populations, military targets, and religious minorities.
ISIS became notorious for its sophisticated use of social media, online propaganda, and recruitment techniques to attract foreign fighters and sympathizers from around the world. At its peak, it controlled large parts of Syria and Iraq, exploiting the region's political and societal instability. Its self-proclaimed leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, gained international notoriety, but was later killed in a targeted military operation.
Efforts to combat ISIS have been multi-faceted, involving military operations, counter-terrorism measures, and international cooperation. While the group has suffered significant territorial losses and setbacks, it still poses a threat, particularly through its decentralized and diffused network of sympathizers and affiliates.
