23 Years After 9/11: ISIS and al Qaeda Threaten Global Security
- The 9/11 attacks by al Qaeda in 2001 led to a global response against terrorism.
- Recent reports show a significant increase in terrorism-related deaths, particularly in the Sahel region.
- Experts warn that while large-scale attacks are harder to execute, the threat from individual jihadist attacks remains high.
The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, orchestrated by al Qaeda, resulted in the deaths of 2,977 individuals and initiated a global response known as the Global War on Terror. Over two decades later, despite the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and claims of defeating major terrorist organizations, the threat from groups like al Qaeda and ISIS persists. Recent reports indicate a 22% increase in terrorism-related deaths in 2023, marking the highest levels since 2017, with the Sahel region experiencing a significant rise in violence. While the Middle East remains a hotspot for terrorist activity, it is no longer the sole epicenter. The Global Terrorism Index highlights that deaths from terrorism in the Sahel surged by 38% from the previous year, indicating a shift in the landscape of global terrorism. Experts warn that although large-scale attacks akin to 9/11 are more challenging to execute, the potential for individual attacks by jihadist groups has increased. ISIS has adapted its operational strategies, often refraining from claiming responsibility for attacks to obscure its activities. This tactic reflects a broader trend of ISIS expanding its influence beyond the Middle East, with affiliates now present from Africa to South Asia. The U.S. and coalition forces continue to conduct operations against ISIS, particularly in Iraq and Syria, but experts emphasize that tactical victories alone will not resolve the underlying socio-economic and human rights issues fueling extremism. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, coupled with Iran's support for groups like Hezbollah and the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan, complicates the global security landscape. As terrorist activities rise, nations must address the root causes of extremism to achieve lasting peace and security.