UK raises alarm over Daesh and its affiliates as global threat intensifies

The United Kingdom has issued a stark warning about the escalating threat posed by Daesh and its affiliates, highlighting the global ramifications of the terrorist group's persistent ideology and violent activities.

While Daesh has been unable to regain significant territory, its global network continues to spread extremism and inspire terrorist acts around the world.

In a recent statement, the UK government expressed deep concern over Daesh's ongoing influence, particularly in Africa where its branches, including ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) and ISSP (Islamic State Sinai Province), have been increasingly active.

These groups have launched a series of attacks in West Africa and the Sahel region, destabilizing the area and inflicting severe suffering on local populations, including grave violations against children and women.

The UK has praised the UN Security Council's recent decision to include sexual and gender-based violence as a criterion for listing under the 1267 regime, noting that it sends a strong message against these heinous crimes.

The UK also highlighted the importance of African-led initiatives such as the Abuja Process, which aims to address terrorism through a comprehensive approach involving regional economic communities and support from UN entities.

The Malabo Declaration, which advocates for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to combating terrorism, has been recognized as a positive development.

The UK has pledged its support for the creation of national action plans that address the root causes of terrorism, including corruption, poor governance, and violations of the rule of law.

The statement also pointed to the growing threat from the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), which has intensified its attacks on civilians in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia, and Turkey.

In response, the UK has launched the ISKP Diplomatic Grouping, convening its latest meeting in Doha last month. This initiative aims to bolster regional cooperation in countering ISKP's financial networks, travel operations, and propaganda.

In the Middle East, the increase in attacks on military bases in Iraq has further exacerbated regional tensions and threatens the coalition's ability to combat Daesh effectively.

The UK has called for a unified effort to de-escalate the situation and continue collaborative efforts to counter the terrorist threat.

As the world marks the tenth anniversary of Daesh's genocide against the Yazidi people, the UK underscores the need to remain vigilant and committed in the fight against Daesh as it seeks to extend its influence to new regions.

The statement reflects a call to the international community to strengthen their collective efforts in understanding and countering the multifaceted threats posed by Daesh and its affiliates.