US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Dec 13) vowed that the United States would retaliate after its troops were killed by an alleged ambush by an Islamic State (IS) militant in Syria. Three other soldiers were also injured in the incident, who are now “doing well,” Trump confirmed. The US president called the incident an “ISIS attack against the US and Syria.” This comes as two US troops and a civilian interpreter were killed in central Syria earlier in the day.&nbsp;“We will retaliate,” Trump told reporters outside the White House. Later on his Truth Social platform, the US president said that Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is “extremely angry and disturbed by this attack,” adding that there will be a “very serious retaliation.”&nbsp;Trump wrote, “We mourn the loss of three Great American Patriots in Syria, two soldiers, and one Civilian Interpreter. Likewise, we pray for the three injured soldiers who, it has just been confirmed, are doing well.”&nbsp;He further said, “This was an ISIS attack against the U.S., and Syria, in a very dangerous part of Syria, that is not fully controlled by them. The President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is extremely angry and disturbed by this attack. There will be very serious retaliation. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”&nbsp;The incident happened when the soldiers “were conducting a key leader engagement” in support of counterterrorism operations, when a joint US–Syrian government patrol was ambushed by an IS militant.

Later on his Truth Social platform, the US president said that Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is “extremely angry and disturbed by this attack,” adding that there will be a “very serious retaliation.”

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Dec 13) vowed that the United States would retaliate after its troops were killed by an alleged ambush by an Islamic State (IS) militant in Syria. Three other soldiers were also injured in the incident, who are now “doing well,” Trump confirmed. The US president called the incident an “ISIS attack against the US and Syria.” This comes as two US troops and a civilian interpreter were killed in central Syria earlier in the day. “We will retaliate,” Trump told reporters outside the White House. Later on his Truth Social platform, the US president said that Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is “extremely angry and disturbed by this attack,” adding that there will be a “very serious retaliation.” Trump wrote, “We mourn the loss of three Great American Patriots in Syria, two soldiers, and one Civilian Interpreter. Likewise, we pray for the three injured soldiers who, it has just been confirmed, are doing well.” He further said, “This was an ISIS attack against the U.S., and Syria, in a very dangerous part of Syria, that is not fully controlled by them. The President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is extremely angry and disturbed by this attack. There will be very serious retaliation. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” The incident happened when the soldiers “were conducting a key leader engagement” in support of counterterrorism operations, when a joint US–Syrian government patrol was ambushed by an IS militant.

Later on his Truth Social platform, the US president said that Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is “extremely angry and disturbed by this attack,” adding that there will be a “very serious retaliation.”

‘ISIS attack against US’: Trump vows ‘serious retaliation’ after two US troops, one civilian killed in Syria

New revelations emerge in India’s largest anti-terror crackdown in recent years.
From the Delhi blast to the 2,900 kg explosives seizure in Faridabad… from ISIS-aligned doctors radicalised online to Pakistan-based handlers teaching ricin manufacturing, agencies are now uncovering a multi-state terror web spanning Delhi, Gujarat, Hyderabad, UP, Rajasthan and beyond.

India’s Multi-State ISIS Crackdown: Deleted Videos, Bio-Terror Plot, Drones, CCTV Updates

India’s Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad has arrested three men, including a foreign-trained doctor, in connection with an alleged ricin terror plot spanning multiple states. Investigators recovered chemicals, a blue drum, and equipment from a Hyderabad workshop. The case raises concerns due to ricin’s extreme lethality and global terror history, from Cold War assassinations to ISIS-inspired attacks. Authorities continue to probe intent, capability, and potential targets. 

Ricin Terror Plot Case: Terrorist Arrested in ISIS-Linked Terror Module Case 

The Delhi Police Special Cell arrested two suspected ISIS operatives planning suicide attacks in crowded locations of the national capital ahead of Diwali. Coordinated raids in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh led to the capture of the men. Police said the suspects had been radicalized online, were undergoing training for attacks, and were in communication with foreign terrorist handlers. 

Delhi Police Bust ISIS-Inspired Module, Foil Suicide Attack Plan; Two Arrested 

Police in the Indian national capital, Delhi, have busted an ISIS module and arrested two terrorists who, as per reports, were allegedly undergoing training for "fidayeen" (suicide) attacks. Delhi Police's Special Cell on Friday identified one of the two terrorists as Adnan. They said that both the arrested men are from Bhopal, and were nabbed following coordinated operations in Delhi's Sadiq Nagar and in Madhya Pradesh’s capital, based on specific intelligence inputs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-re-just-gonna-kill-them-trump-says-won-t-seek-congress-before-strikes-venezuela-urges-no-crazy-war-please-1761271095909">'We're just gonna kill them': Trump says won't seek Congress nod before striking Venezuela; Maduro pleads 'No crazy war, please!'</a><h2>Fidayeen threat in India?</h2>PTI news agency, citing a senior police officer, reported that the two terror suspects were arrested based on specific intelligence inputs about an impending terror strike in Delhi. "Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused were associated with the ISIS, and were in the process of planning a major terror strike in Delhi. Electronic devices and incriminating materials have been seized from their possession," revealed the officer.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-is-our-enemy-putin-medvedev-slam-trump-after-new-us-sanctions-vow-russia-will-never-bow-to-pressure-1761267942499">'US is our enemy': Putin, Medvedev slam Trump after new US sanctions, vow Russia will 'never bow to pressure'</a>A cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered during the coordinated operations, according to initial reports. The operation was led by Additional Commissioner Pramod Kushwaha and ACP Lalit Mohan Negi, according to The Times of India. These timely arrests, police said, likely "averted a possible terror attack in Delhi".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Delhi Police foils major terror plot: Two suspected ISIS operatives arrested; crowded areas in the national capital were reportedly on target . . . . Video: Delhi Police <a href="https://t.co/YOBP97z7ZA">pic.twitter.com/YOBP97z7ZA</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1981637328998121697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Pakistan ISI links?</h2>Officials believe the busted module was inspired by ISIS and could have links to Pakistan’s ISI, which is suspected of funding and coordinating such networks under the guise of the Islamic State. The interrogation of the two suspects is ongoing, with agencies probing their plans and possible connections to international terror outfits. Security agencies are also working to trace the terror suspects' network and identify possible international connections.

Delhi Police have arrested two ISIS-linked men who were allegedly training for suicide attacks in the Indian capital. Officials say their arrests likely foiled a major terror plot in the capital. Investigators are probing possible Pakistan ISI links.

Police in the Indian national capital, Delhi, have busted an ISIS module and arrested two terrorists who, as per reports, were allegedly undergoing training for "fidayeen" (suicide) attacks. Delhi Police's Special Cell on Friday identified one of the two terrorists as Adnan. They said that both the arrested men are from Bhopal, and were nabbed following coordinated operations in Delhi's Sadiq Nagar and in Madhya Pradesh’s capital, based on specific intelligence inputs. Also read | 'We're just gonna kill them': Trump says won't seek Congress nod before striking Venezuela; Maduro pleads 'No crazy war, please!' Fidayeen threat in India? PTI news agency, citing a senior police officer, reported that the two terror suspects were arrested based on specific intelligence inputs about an impending terror strike in Delhi. "Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused were associated with the ISIS, and were in the process of planning a major terror strike in Delhi. Electronic devices and incriminating materials have been seized from their possession," revealed the officer. Also read | 'US is our enemy': Putin, Medvedev slam Trump after new US sanctions, vow Russia will 'never bow to pressure' A cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered during the coordinated operations, according to initial reports. The operation was led by Additional Commissioner Pramod Kushwaha and ACP Lalit Mohan Negi, according to The Times of India. These timely arrests, police said, likely "averted a possible terror attack in Delhi".

Delhi Police have arrested two ISIS-linked men who were allegedly training for suicide attacks in the Indian capital. Officials say their arrests likely foiled a major terror plot in the capital. Investigators are probing possible Pakistan ISI links.

Delhi Police foils suicide attack plot targeting crowded areas; ISIS operatives with possible Pakistan ISI links arrested

Foreign Minister Muttaqi expressed serious concerns about the increasing regional presence of ISIS, highlighting the threat it poses to stability and security.

Muttaqi Raises Concerns Over Growing Regional Presence of ISIS

A US precision airstrike has taken out Abu Khadijah, ISIS’s second-in-command globally, in Iraq’s Al Anbar province. CENTCOM confirmed that his body was found with a suicide vest, highlighting the ongoing battle against terrorism. This marks a major blow to ISIS operations.

US airstrike kills top ISIS commander in western Iraq

Abu Khadija - the leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and "one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world" has been killed.&nbsp;
Abu Khadija, also known as Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi was killed by the Iraqi security forces, with the support of the US-led coalition, Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani informed on Friday (March 14).&nbsp;
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CENTCOM Forces Kill ISIS Chief of Global Operations Who Also Served as ISIS #2 On March 13, U.S. Central Command forces, in cooperation with Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, conducted a precision airstrike in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, that killed the Global ISIS #2 leader,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/rWeEoUY7Lw">pic.twitter.com/rWeEoUY7Lw</a>
&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1900737395915440260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-trump-dies-mysteriously-internet-goes-crazy-after-reporter-smacks-mic-into-trumps-face-8854772">'If Trump dies mysteriously...': Internet goes crazy after reporter smacks mic into US president's face</a>
US President Donald Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social and said the notorious ISIS chief was killed along with another unidentified member of the terror organisation.&nbsp;
"Today the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed. He was relentlessly hunted down by our intrepid warfighters," Trump said in the post.&nbsp;
"His miserable life was terminated, along with another member of ISIS, in coordination with the Iraqi Government and the Kurdish Regional Government. PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!" the US president added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-targets-45-universities-ivy-league-schools-in-crackdown-over-alleged-discrimination-against-white-students-dei-practices-8854745">Trump targets 45 universities, Ivy League schools in crackdown over 'discrimination' against white students</a>
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يواصل العراقيون انتصاراتهم المبهرة على قوى الظلام والإرهاب، حيث تمكن أبطال جهاز المخابرات الوطني العراقي، بإسناد وتنسيق من قيادة العمليات المشتركة وقوات التحالف الدولي، من قتل الإرهابي عبد الله مكي مصلح الرفيعي المكنى (أبو خديجة) الذي يشغل منصب ما يسمّى (نائب الخليفة وهو الذي&hellip;
&mdash; محمد شياع السوداني (@mohamedshia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mohamedshia/status/1900537600219455676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-government-shutdown-senae-democrat-leader-schumer-defies-party-to-back-trumps-funding-bill-8854601">US government shutdown; Senate Democrat leader Schumer defies party to back Trump's funding bill</a>
<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-targets-45-universities-ivy-league-schools-in-crackdown-over-alleged-discrimination-against-white-students-dei-practices-8854745"></a>The fall, rise, and fall of ISIS</h2>
The former ISIS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared a caliphate over at least a quarter of Iraq and Syria. In 2019, he was killed by US special forces in Syria after which the terror group collapsed.&nbsp;
But in July 2024, the US Central Command claimed that ISIS is trying to rebuild itself after several years of diminished capabilities.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-blasts-illegal-media-in-fiery-doj-speech-slams-outlets-critical-of-him-political-arms-of-the-democrat-party-8854702">Trump blasts 'illegal' media in fiery speech, labels outlets critical of him 'political arms of Democrat party'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | Abu Khadija - the leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and "one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world" has been killed.

Abu Khadija - the leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and "one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world" has been killed. Abu Khadija, also known as Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi was killed by the Iraqi security forces, with the support of the US-led coalition, Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani informed on Friday (March 14). CENTCOM Forces Kill ISIS Chief of Global Operations Who Also Served as ISIS #2 On March 13, U.S. Central Command forces, in cooperation with Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, conducted a precision airstrike in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, that killed the Global ISIS #2 leader,… pic.twitter.com/rWeEoUY7Lw — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 15, 2025 Also read: 'If Trump dies mysteriously...': Internet goes crazy after reporter smacks mic into US president's face US President Donald Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social and said the notorious ISIS chief was killed along with another unidentified member of the terror organisation. "Today the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed. He was relentlessly hunted down by our intrepid warfighters," Trump said in the post. "His miserable life was terminated, along with another member of ISIS, in coordination with the Iraqi Government and the Kurdish Regional Government. PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH!" the US president added. Also read: Trump targets 45 universities, Ivy League schools in crackdown over 'discrimination' against white students يواصل العراقيون انتصاراتهم المبهرة على قوى الظلام والإرهاب، حيث تمكن أبطال جهاز المخابرات الوطني العراقي، بإسناد وتنسيق من قيادة العمليات المشتركة وقوات التحالف الدولي، من قتل الإرهابي عبد الله مكي مصلح الرفيعي المكنى (أبو خديجة) الذي يشغل منصب ما يسمّى (نائب الخليفة وهو الذي… — محمد شياع السوداني (@mohamedshia) March 14, 2025 Also read: US government shutdown; Senate Democrat leader Schumer defies party to back Trump's funding bill The fall, rise, and fall of ISIS The former ISIS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared a caliphate over at least a quarter of Iraq and Syria. In 2019, he was killed by US special forces in Syria after which the terror group collapsed. But in July 2024, the US Central Command claimed that ISIS is trying to rebuild itself after several years of diminished capabilities. Also read: Trump blasts 'illegal' media in fiery speech, labels outlets critical of him 'political arms of Democrat party' (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | 'Most dangerous terrorist in the world': ISIS chief Abu Khadija killed by US-Iraq forces

The U.S. military has conducted an airstrike against Islamic State operatives in Somalia. This marks the first attack by the U.S. during President Donald Trump's second term.

US launches airstrikes against ISIS targets in Somalia

The United States military on Saturday conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday (Feb 01).
"This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia," Trump said on Truth Social.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a>
"These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians," he added.
"Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn&rsquo;t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that &ldquo;WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!,&rdquo; the US President warned.
Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596">'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings</a>
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday that the strikes by US Africa Command were directed by President Trump and coordinated with Somalia's government.
"Our initial assessment is that multiple operatives were killed in the airstrikes and no civilians were harmed," Hegseth added.
"This action further degrades ISIS's ability to plot and conduct terrorist attacks threatening U.S. citizens, our partners, and innocent civilians and sends a clear signal that the United States always stands ready to find and eliminate terrorists who threaten the United States and our allies, even as we conduct robust border-protection and many other operations under President Trump's leadership," the statement from the defense secretary said.
The Pentagon's counterterrorism strategy in Africa has been strained as two key partners, Chad and Niger, ousted U.S. forces last year and took over key bases that the U.S. military had used to train and conduct missions against terrorist groups across the Sahel, the vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert.
As per the International Crisis Group, the number of ISIS militants in Somalia is likely to be in the hundreds, with most of them scattered in the Cal Miskaat mountains in Puntland's Bari region.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia," Trump said on Truth Social.

The United States military on Saturday conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday (Feb 01). "This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia," Trump said on Truth Social. Also read: Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict "These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians," he added. "Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn’t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that “WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!,” the US President warned. Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike. Also read: 'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday that the strikes by US Africa Command were directed by President Trump and coordinated with Somalia's government. "Our initial assessment is that multiple operatives were killed in the airstrikes and no civilians were harmed," Hegseth added. "This action further degrades ISIS's ability to plot and conduct terrorist attacks threatening U.S. citizens, our partners, and innocent civilians and sends a clear signal that the United States always stands ready to find and eliminate terrorists who threaten the United States and our allies, even as we conduct robust border-protection and many other operations under President Trump's leadership," the statement from the defense secretary said. The Pentagon's counterterrorism strategy in Africa has been strained as two key partners, Chad and Niger, ousted U.S. forces last year and took over key bases that the U.S. military had used to train and conduct missions against terrorist groups across the Sahel, the vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert. As per the International Crisis Group, the number of ISIS militants in Somalia is likely to be in the hundreds, with most of them scattered in the Cal Miskaat mountains in Puntland's Bari region. (With inputs from agencies)

'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia

The man responsible for the truck attack in New Orleans is reported to have constructed two bombs using a highly rare explosive compound. Senior law enforcement officials have stated that this compound has never been used in any previous terrorist attack in the U.S. or Europe. Watch in for more details!

New Orleans Terror Attack: US House Intelligence Committee Chairman Makes Big Claim

New Orleans Attack: New Orleans Suspect Used 'Rare Explosive Compound' In Bombs

U.S. President Joe Biden has stated that the suspect in the New Year's Day attack in New Orleans had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and acted alone. The driver, identified as Shamsud Din Jabbar A, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Texas, drove his truck into a crowd celebrating New Year's, killing at least 15 people and injuring over 30. Watch in for more details!

New Orleans Terror Attack: Bourbon Street Reopens In Less Than 36 Hours After The Attack

A new Islamist Afghan revenge attack is terrorising America. We are just two days into 2025, and the U.S. has already seen three major attacks, killing at least 16 and injuring more than 50 people.

New Islamist revenge attacks terrorise America

At least ten people lost their lives and over 35 were injured in New Orleans after a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd during the early hours of New Year’s Day and opened fire when his vehicle came to a halt. As per media reports, the injured have been admitted to different hospitals. As per a report by CNN, the suspect behind the attack was shot dead by law enforcement officers. Watch in to learn more.

New Orleans Truck Attack: FBI probing incident as 'terrorist attack'

New Orleans Truck Attack: President Biden Says New Orleans Attacker 'Inspired Likely By ISIS'

The French military bombed positions of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria on Tuesday (Dec 31), the first such strike in the West Asian country since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government.
In a post on X, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said, "Our armed forces remain engaged in battling terrorism in the Levant." "On Sunday, French air assets carried out targeted strikes against Daesh (the Arabic name for ISIS) on Syrian soil," he added.
<h2>A total of seven bombs dropped in central Syria</h2>
Speaking to the news agency AFP, the French defence ministry said that Rafale fighter jets and US-made Reaper drones dropped "a total of seven bombs on two military targets belonging to Daesh in central Syria."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nos arm&eacute;es restent engag&eacute;es dans la lutte contre le terrorisme au Levant. Elles contribuent &agrave; la coalition internationale "Operation Inherent Resolve" (OIR), depuis 2014 en Irak et 2015 en Syrie. Dimanche, des moyens a&eacute;riens fran&ccedil;ais ont proc&eacute;d&eacute; &agrave; des frappes cibl&eacute;es contre des&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/uwzOmcJDce">pic.twitter.com/uwzOmcJDce</a>
&mdash; S&eacute;bastien Lecornu (@SebLecornu) <a href="https://twitter.com/SebLecornu/status/1873988975930548616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against ISIS since 2014 for Iraq and 2015 for Syria.
<h2>The Syrian rebel group's battle with the ISIS</h2>
The rebel offensive in Syria, which led to Bashar al-Assad's ouster, was led by the&nbsp;Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-ahmed-al-sharaa-says-need-to-rewrite-constitution-before-elections-happen-urges-us-to-lift-sanctions-8576403" rel="dofollow">Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them</a>
AFP reported that in its Idlib stronghold, the HTS has long battled jihadists from the Islamic State group, which was territorially defeated in Syria in 2019.
Recently, Syria's de-factor leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has tapped dozens of former rebels for high-ranking army positions, several of whom are foreign fighters.&nbsp;
A decree published late Sunday on the Telegram account of Sharaa's General Command listed 49 people to be made commanders, in the first such announcement since the fall of the Assad government on December 8.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News, Middle East: France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against ISIS. A total of seven bombs were dropped on two positions in Syria. 

The French military bombed positions of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria on Tuesday (Dec 31), the first such strike in the West Asian country since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government. In a post on X, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said, "Our armed forces remain engaged in battling terrorism in the Levant." "On Sunday, French air assets carried out targeted strikes against Daesh (the Arabic name for ISIS) on Syrian soil," he added. A total of seven bombs dropped in central Syria Speaking to the news agency AFP, the French defence ministry said that Rafale fighter jets and US-made Reaper drones dropped "a total of seven bombs on two military targets belonging to Daesh in central Syria." Nos armées restent engagées dans la lutte contre le terrorisme au Levant. Elles contribuent à la coalition internationale "Operation Inherent Resolve" (OIR), depuis 2014 en Irak et 2015 en Syrie. Dimanche, des moyens aériens français ont procédé à des frappes ciblées contre des… pic.twitter.com/uwzOmcJDce — Sébastien Lecornu (@SebLecornu) December 31, 2024 France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against ISIS since 2014 for Iraq and 2015 for Syria. The Syrian rebel group's battle with the ISIS The rebel offensive in Syria, which led to Bashar al-Assad's ouster, was led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Also read | Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them AFP reported that in its Idlib stronghold, the HTS has long battled jihadists from the Islamic State group, which was territorially defeated in Syria in 2019. Recently, Syria's de-factor leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has tapped dozens of former rebels for high-ranking army positions, several of whom are foreign fighters. A decree published late Sunday on the Telegram account of Sharaa's General Command listed 49 people to be made commanders, in the first such announcement since the fall of the Assad government on December 8. (With inputs from agencies)

French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt

Taliban Refugees Minister Khalil Haqqani has been killed in Kabul. The incident marks a significant development amid ongoing tensions and violence in the Afghan capital.

Taliban Refugee Minister Khalil Haqqani Killed in Kabul

Taliban Blames ISIS For Killing Khalil Haqqani in Kabul

In the wake of rebel factions taking over control of Syria, the US conducted airstrikes over the Islamic State terror camps in Syria, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

The operation included “dozens of precision airstrikes” and more than 75 targets were hit using Air Force assets like B-52s, F-15s and A-10s in central Syria, CENTCOM said in a statement.

“The strikes against the ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps were conducted as part of the ongoing mission to disrupt, degrade and defeat ISIS, in order to prevent the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek to take advantage of the current situation to reconstitute in central Syria.”

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𝐔.𝐒. 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚 
 
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted dozens of precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and… <a href="https://t.co/E7CUPuPehf">pic.twitter.com/E7CUPuPehf</a>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1865841718366450013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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CENTCOM said that they are carrying out damage assessments and there are no indications of any civilians getting killed in the operations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bashar-al-assad-syrias-tyrant-who-pushed-the-country-into-a-decade-long-civil-war-782409">Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war</a>

CENTCOM further said that it, along with partners and regional allies, will continue its operations to weaken the operational capabilities of ISIS during this "dynamic period in Syria."

"There should be no doubt - we will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria," said General Michael Erik Kurilla.

"All organisations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way," he added.

<h2>How did the US react to the fall of Damascus and the end of the Assad&nbsp;family's rule?</h2>

The Syrian government fell on Sunday (Dec 8) and President&nbsp;Bashar Assad was toppled from his position, marking the end of his family’s 50-year rule after the rebels stormed the capital.

Assad, along with his family,&nbsp;fled to Russia, where they were provided asylum.

In the wake of the incidents, US President Joe Biden confirmed that the country will continue carrying out anti-ISIS operations.&nbsp;

He said that the fall of Assad was a&nbsp;“fundamental act of justice”&nbsp;and added that the current phase was full of “risk and uncertainty.”

Watch:&nbsp;Syria Civil War: Rebels Seize Control Of Damascus As Assad Flees To Russia&nbsp;

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In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the people of Syria "finally have a reason for hope," and added that the US "strongly supports a peaceful transition of power to an accountable Syrian government".

"The Assad regime’s refusal since 2011 to engage in a credible political process and its reliance on the brutal support of Russia and Iran led inevitably to its own collapse," said Blinken.&nbsp;

"During this transitional period, the Syrian people have every right to demand the preservation of state institutions, the resumption of key services, and the protection of vulnerable communities," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

In the wake of rebel factions taking over control of Syria, the US conducted airstrikes over the Islamic State terror camps in Syria, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

In the wake of rebel factions taking over control of Syria, the US conducted airstrikes over the Islamic State terror camps in Syria, said the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation included “dozens of precision airstrikes” and more than 75 targets were hit using Air Force assets like B-52s, F-15s and A-10s in central Syria, CENTCOM said in a statement. “The strikes against the ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps were conducted as part of the ongoing mission to disrupt, degrade and defeat ISIS, in order to prevent the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek to take advantage of the current situation to reconstitute in central Syria.” 𝐔.𝐒. 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚 U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted dozens of precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and… pic.twitter.com/E7CUPuPehf — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 8, 2024 × CENTCOM said that they are carrying out damage assessments and there are no indications of any civilians getting killed in the operations. Also Read: Bashar Al-Assad: Syria's 'tyrant' who pushed the country into a decade-long civil war CENTCOM further said that it, along with partners and regional allies, will continue its operations to weaken the operational capabilities of ISIS during this "dynamic period in Syria." "There should be no doubt - we will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria," said General Michael Erik Kurilla. "All organisations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way," he added. How did the US react to the fall of Damascus and the end of the Assad family's rule? The Syrian government fell on Sunday (Dec 8) and President Bashar Assad was toppled from his position, marking the end of his family’s 50-year rule after the rebels stormed the capital. Assad, along with his family, fled to Russia, where they were provided asylum. In the wake of the incidents, US President Joe Biden confirmed that the country will continue carrying out anti-ISIS operations. He said that the fall of Assad was a “fundamental act of justice” and added that the current phase was full of “risk and uncertainty.” Watch: Syria Civil War: Rebels Seize Control Of Damascus As Assad Flees To Russia In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the people of Syria "finally have a reason for hope," and added that the US "strongly supports a peaceful transition of power to an accountable Syrian government". "The Assad regime’s refusal since 2011 to engage in a credible political process and its reliance on the brutal support of Russia and Iran led inevitably to its own collapse," said Blinken. "During this transitional period, the Syrian people have every right to demand the preservation of state institutions, the resumption of key services, and the protection of vulnerable communities," he added. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US conducts airstrikes on ISIS camps in Syria as Biden calls end of Assad regime an 'act of justice'

Singapore has arrested a teenage boy who was allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a busy suburb, the interior minister said Friday (Oct 18), adding it was a "very close shave".

After watching Islamic State propaganda glorifying knife attacks, the 17-year-old visited the suburb to rehearse his attack before he was arrested in August, Home Minister K&nbsp;Shanmugam said.

"He was quite serious because he actually practised stabbing motions with the scissors. He checked out which place would cause death –&nbsp;basically the neck area –&nbsp;so he practised hitting at the neck," Shanmugam told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-express-plane-escorted-by-singapore-jets-after-bomb-threat-767823" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-express-plane-escorted-by-singapore-jets-after-bomb-threat-767823&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat</a>

"I would say this was a very close shave. It is very fortunate that ISD (Internal Security Department) arrested him in time."

The teenager, detained under the Internal Security Act, had allegedly planned a stabbing spree to coincide with the school holidays in September when the area would be teeming with people.

In a statement released on Friday, ISD said the teenager was exposed to the deluge of online extremist materials posted by the Islamic State group after Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7 last year.

"He joined various online groups which provided updates on ISIS's activities and bought into ISIS's rhetoric of promoting the use of violence to establish an Islamic caliphate," ISD said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-singapore-visit-has-given-turbo-boosting-to-ties-hc-simon-wong-762620" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-singapore-visit-has-given-turbo-boosting-to-ties-hc-simon-wong-762620&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong</a>

By January, "the youth had become a staunch ISIS supporter and aspired to die as a martyr while fighting for the group," it added.

He took a pledge of allegiance to IS and intended to travel to Syria to fight there, according to ISD.

The teenager acted alone as he was unable to radicalise other people, ISD added.

His family noticed him watching videos of radical preachers and advised him to stop, but he continued, using "codewords" when discussing his beliefs online, the department said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Singapore has arrested a teenage boy who was allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a busy suburb, the interior minister said Friday (Oct 18), adding it was a "very close shave".

Singapore has arrested a teenage boy who was allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a busy suburb, the interior minister said Friday (Oct 18), adding it was a "very close shave". After watching Islamic State propaganda glorifying knife attacks, the 17-year-old visited the suburb to rehearse his attack before he was arrested in August, Home Minister K Shanmugam said. "He was quite serious because he actually practised stabbing motions with the scissors. He checked out which place would cause death – basically the neck area – so he practised hitting at the neck," Shanmugam told reporters. Also read: Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat "I would say this was a very close shave. It is very fortunate that ISD (Internal Security Department) arrested him in time." The teenager, detained under the Internal Security Act, had allegedly planned a stabbing spree to coincide with the school holidays in September when the area would be teeming with people. In a statement released on Friday, ISD said the teenager was exposed to the deluge of online extremist materials posted by the Islamic State group after Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7 last year. "He joined various online groups which provided updates on ISIS's activities and bought into ISIS's rhetoric of promoting the use of violence to establish an Islamic caliphate," ISD said. Also read: PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong By January, "the youth had become a staunch ISIS supporter and aspired to die as a martyr while fighting for the group," it added. He took a pledge of allegiance to IS and intended to travel to Syria to fight there, according to ISD. The teenager acted alone as he was unable to radicalise other people, ISD added. His family noticed him watching videos of radical preachers and advised him to stop, but he continued, using "codewords" when discussing his beliefs online, the department said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Teen held in Singapore for plotting ISIS-style stabbing spree

A soldier of the United States (US) Army was sentenced to 14 years in prison for attempting to help the Islamic State conduct a deadly ambush of American troops, the Department of Justice said on Friday (Oct 11).

A soldier of the United States (US) Army was sentenced to 14 years in prison for attempting to help the Islamic State conduct a deadly ambush of American troops, the Department of Justice said on Friday (Oct 11). In a statement, the Department of Justice said that the soldier was identified as 24-year-old Cole Bridges, also known as Cole Gonzales. The department said that Bridges was jailed for "attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organisation and attempting to murder US military service members, based on his efforts to assist the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) to attack and kill US soldiers in the Middle East." Bridges joined US Army in September 2019 The Department of Justice said that Bridges joined the army in September 2019 and was assigned as a cavalry scout in the Third Infantry Division based in Fort Stewart, Georgia. Before joining the army, the man began researching and consuming online propaganda promoting jihadists and their violent ideology and began to express his support for ISIS and jihad on social media. "In or about October 2020, approximately one year after joining the Army, Bridges began communicating with an FBI online covert employee (the OCE), who was posing as an ISIS supporter in contact with ISIS fighters in the Middle East," the statement said. Also read | Girl taken as ISIS save at age 11, held captive for 10 years by Hamas, is rescued from Gaza "During these communications, Bridges expressed his frustration with the US military and his desire to aid ISIS. Bridges then provided training and guidance to purported ISIS fighters who were planning attacks, including advice about potential targets in New York City," the statement added. The 24-year-old soldier also provided the OCE with portions of a US Army training manual and guidance about military combat tactics, with the understanding that the materials would be used by ISIS in future attack planning. An advice to ambush US Special Forces The Department of Justice further said in its statement Bridges also provided advice about the best way to fortify an ISIS encampment to ambush US Special Forces, including by wiring certain buildings with explosives to kill US troops. In January 2021, Bridges provided the OCE with a video of himself in his army body armor standing in front of a flag often used by ISIS fighters and making a gesture symbolic of support for ISIS. "Approximately one week later, Bridges sent a second video in which Bridges, using a voice manipulator, narrated a propaganda speech in support of the anticipated ambush by ISIS on US troops," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

US Army soldier sentenced to prison for 14 years for attempting to help ISIS

United States has launched a series of bombings and what it describes as ISIS camps in Syria. In an attempt to disrupt the group's ability to carry out attacks in the region. These air strikes have hit multiple camps in Syria, the US Central Command confirmed that these bombings in fact took place but is not specified the exact locations. Watch to know more.

Amid Israel-Hamas War, US Strikes Syria

Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, an Afghan man who was arrested for plotting an Islamic State-inspired&nbsp; terror attack targeting US presidential election, had once worked with CIA, multiple American media outlets reported.

According to the reports, it is not clear if the 27-year old was radicalised before or after he came to the US after the American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan as Taliban took over the reins at the end of a bloody war of over 20 years.

US Elections: Afghan Man Arrested For Plotting US Election Day Attack

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Tawhedi reportedly worked as a security guard for the Central Intelligence Agency,&nbsp; and arrived in the US in September 2021.

He was arrested on Monday (Oct 7) from Oklahoma City for the terror plot&nbsp;inspired by the Islamic State group.

<h2>The US Election Day terror attack plot</h2>

According to US court documents, Tawhedi and other suspects including his juvenile brother-in-law planned a shooting attack on large gatherings during Election Day, November 5, when Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will fight for the White House.

The conspirators sold their home and belongings and bought firearms to carry out the attack, including two AK-47 rifles which they got just before their arrest, said the documents unsealed on Tuesday (Oct 8).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-says-cybercriminals-using-chatgpt-to-influence-us-elections-766330">Also read: OpenAI says cybercriminals using ChatGPT to influence US elections</a> 
 
Tawhedi reportedly searched online for access to surveillance and security cameras in the US capital Washington DC. In July, he checked webcams that show the White House and the Washington Monument. He also looked for states in the US where gun laws were relaxed.

He told the investigators the plotters expected to achieve martyrdom,&nbsp;said the court documents.

Tawhedi, who is currently in custody, had accessed ISIS propaganda and send money to a charity run by the terror group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-his-youngest-daughter-tiffany-is-pregnant-766509">Also read: Donald Trump says his youngest daughter Tiffany is pregnant</a>

He entered the US under the so-called humanitarian parole route and later applied for a Special Immigrant Visa, which is given to&nbsp;those who worked with US forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Tawhedi is expected to appear for a hearing on October 17.

On Thursday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Afghan nationals who entered the US were screened and vetted by intelligence, law enforcement and counterterrorism professionals.

"With every new information that emerges that if that individual could pose a threat to public safety, we take immediate action," she added, without answering specific questions about the terror plot.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, an Afghan man who was arrested for plotting an Islamic State-inspired terror attack targeting US presidential election, had once worked with CIA, multiple American media outlets reported.

Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, an Afghan man who was arrested for plotting an Islamic State-inspired terror attack targeting US presidential election, had once worked with CIA, multiple American media outlets reported. According to the reports, it is not clear if the 27-year old was radicalised before or after he came to the US after the American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan as Taliban took over the reins at the end of a bloody war of over 20 years. US Elections: Afghan Man Arrested For Plotting US Election Day Attack × Tawhedi reportedly worked as a security guard for the Central Intelligence Agency, and arrived in the US in September 2021. He was arrested on Monday (Oct 7) from Oklahoma City for the terror plot inspired by the Islamic State group. The US Election Day terror attack plot According to US court documents, Tawhedi and other suspects including his juvenile brother-in-law planned a shooting attack on large gatherings during Election Day, November 5, when Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will fight for the White House. The conspirators sold their home and belongings and bought firearms to carry out the attack, including two AK-47 rifles which they got just before their arrest, said the documents unsealed on Tuesday (Oct 8). Also read: OpenAI says cybercriminals using ChatGPT to influence US elections Tawhedi reportedly searched online for access to surveillance and security cameras in the US capital Washington DC. In July, he checked webcams that show the White House and the Washington Monument. He also looked for states in the US where gun laws were relaxed. He told the investigators the plotters expected to achieve martyrdom, said the court documents. Tawhedi, who is currently in custody, had accessed ISIS propaganda and send money to a charity run by the terror group. Also read: Donald Trump says his youngest daughter Tiffany is pregnant He entered the US under the so-called humanitarian parole route and later applied for a Special Immigrant Visa, which is given to those who worked with US forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. Tawhedi is expected to appear for a hearing on October 17. On Thursday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Afghan nationals who entered the US were screened and vetted by intelligence, law enforcement and counterterrorism professionals. "With every new information that emerges that if that individual could pose a threat to public safety, we take immediate action," she added, without answering specific questions about the terror plot. (With inputs from agencies)

US election terror attack plot: Afghan suspect Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi once worked with CIA - Reports

Five Arab Israeli citizens linked to the banned terror outfit IS have been arrested for allegedly plotting a car bombing, according to the Israeli police and Shin Bet security service.&nbsp;The five residents hailed from Taybeh in central Israel and had formed a terror cell affiliated with the IS.

The attack was to take place at the Azrieli Mall in the capital city of Tel Aviv. The five accused had studied terror attacks in Syria and discussed the amount of explosives needed to bring down the mall.&nbsp;

According to authorities, the five terror operatives were arrested after a month-long secret investigation and will face charges in the coming days.

The chiefs of the terror cell have been identified as&nbsp;Mahmoud Azam and Ibrahim Sheik Yousef. They recruited three others — Sajed Masarwa, Abdullah Baransi and Abdel Kareem Baransi.&nbsp;

Notably, Azam and Yousef were in contact with foreign IS agents and planned to travel abroad to meet with IS operatives. However, their plan was uncovered with the&nbsp;help of “precise and effective intelligence operations,” and was stopped in its preliminary stages.

It is unclear if the five operatives had any connection to Hamas, a militant outfit operating in the Gaza Strip and currently at war with Israel.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-rare-moments-of-hope-and-humanity-765240">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Rare Moments of Hope and Humanity</a>

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<h2>Hamas chief renews suicide bombing</h2>

The arrest comes a day after a report in the Wall Street Journal claimed that Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar had ordered his fighters to revive suicide attacks in Israel,&nbsp;shortly after replacing assassinated Ismail Haniyeh.&nbsp;

A few days after Sinwar took charge of the militant outfit, a Palestinian entered the Israeli capital city of Tel Aviv with a blue backpack, loaded with explosives. Although the bomb exploded before reaching the intended target, it sent the signal that dirty warfare tactics were back on the table.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-evading-israelis-by-dressing-as-woman-to-hide-in-plain-sight-report-754530" target="_blank">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar evading Israelis by 'dressing as woman' to hide in plain sight: Report</a>

Despite being involved in militant operations against Israel for a long time, Hamas had largely discontinued suicide bombing two decades ago, primarily due to Israel building a security barrier around the West Bank and boosting its&nbsp;intelligence-gathering methods to thwart the bombers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Five Arab Israeli citizens linked to the banned terror outfit IS have been arrested for allegedly plotting a car bombing, according to the Israeli police and Shin Bet security service.

Five Arab Israeli citizens linked to the banned terror outfit IS have been arrested for allegedly plotting a car bombing, according to the Israeli police and Shin Bet security service. The five residents hailed from Taybeh in central Israel and had formed a terror cell affiliated with the IS. The attack was to take place at the Azrieli Mall in the capital city of Tel Aviv. The five accused had studied terror attacks in Syria and discussed the amount of explosives needed to bring down the mall. According to authorities, the five terror operatives were arrested after a month-long secret investigation and will face charges in the coming days. The chiefs of the terror cell have been identified as Mahmoud Azam and Ibrahim Sheik Yousef. They recruited three others — Sajed Masarwa, Abdullah Baransi and Abdel Kareem Baransi. Notably, Azam and Yousef were in contact with foreign IS agents and planned to travel abroad to meet with IS operatives. However, their plan was uncovered with the help of “precise and effective intelligence operations,” and was stopped in its preliminary stages. It is unclear if the five operatives had any connection to Hamas, a militant outfit operating in the Gaza Strip and currently at war with Israel. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Rare Moments of Hope and Humanity × Hamas chief renews suicide bombing The arrest comes a day after a report in the Wall Street Journal claimed that Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar had ordered his fighters to revive suicide attacks in Israel, shortly after replacing assassinated Ismail Haniyeh. A few days after Sinwar took charge of the militant outfit, a Palestinian entered the Israeli capital city of Tel Aviv with a blue backpack, loaded with explosives. Although the bomb exploded before reaching the intended target, it sent the signal that dirty warfare tactics were back on the table. Also read | Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar evading Israelis by 'dressing as woman' to hide in plain sight: Report Despite being involved in militant operations against Israel for a long time, Hamas had largely discontinued suicide bombing two decades ago, primarily due to Israel building a security barrier around the West Bank and boosting its intelligence-gathering methods to thwart the bombers. (With inputs from agencies)

IS-linked 5 Arab Israelis arrested for plotting car-bombing in Tel Aviv mall

In a rare public address on Tuesday, MI5 director Ken McCallum outlined the growing threats to the UK from hostile states and terror groups. McCallum revealed that the number of state-threat investigations conducted by MI5 has increased by 48% over the past year, with Iran, Russia, and China identified as the primary perpetrators. His speech highlighted the intensifying security challenges the UK faces from espionage, cyberattacks, and foreign interference, underscoring the importance of national vigilance in countering these evolving threats.

"ISIS and Al-Qaeda On The Rise Again," MI5 Chief Slams Russia and Iran For Plots In UK

A woman kidnapped as a young girl at the age of 11 by ISIS terrorists and later held by Hamas for a decade has been rescued by Israeli forces in Gaza, officials said. The United States led a month-long operation to free the 21-year-old Yazidi woman.

Fawzia Amin Sido was freed earlier this week and was greeted by her emotional family as soon as she returned to her native Iraq.

“Fawzia, a Yazidi girl kidnapped by ISIS from Iraq and brought to Gaza at just 11 years old, has finally been rescued by the Israeli security forces,” tweeted David Saranga, the director of the digital diplomacy bureau at Israel’s foreign ministry.

“For years, she was held captive by a Palestinian Hamas-ISIS member. She has now been reunited with her family."

He added that "her story is a reminder of the brutality faced by Yazidi children, taken without a choice."

Notably, ISIS captured more than 6,000 Yazidis in 2014, with many of them being sold into sexual slavery and others trained as child soldiers.

Sido is said to be in good physical condition, although she is mentally traumatised after spending all these years in captivity, Iraqi officials said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-near-beirut-airport-reportedly-targeted-nasrallahs-successor-764339">Israeli strikes near Beirut airport reportedly targeted Nasrallah's successor</a>

Israel, Jordan and Iraq were also part of the operation, according to officials.

<h2>ISIS captured Yazidis 10 years back</h2>

Yazidi communities across Iraq faced terror attacks by Islamic State jihadists in 2014 and this is when Sido was taken as a young girl from her family. She was quickly sold off before being trafficked to Gaza, where she spent the next 10 years in captivity.

Reports suggest that the Iraqi officials were in touch with the woman for several months before the rescue efforts were conducted this week. She had also given her information to US officials.

Iraqi officials further informed that efforts to rescue her had been on for months. However, the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza hampered the plans and they faced failure on several occasions over the past four months.

No details about the rescue operation have been revealed, although a State Department spokesperson said that Sido’s captor was recently killed, and this led her to seek repatriation.

Of the more than 6,000 Yazidis captured in 2014, 2,600 remain missing with most of them feared dead. Around 3,500 have been rescued or freed. 
&nbsp;

A woman kidnapped as a young girl at the age of 11 by ISIS terrorists and later held by Hamas for a decade has been rescued by Israeli forces in Gaza, officials said.

A woman kidnapped as a young girl at the age of 11 by ISIS terrorists and later held by Hamas for a decade has been rescued by Israeli forces in Gaza, officials said. The United States led a month-long operation to free the 21-year-old Yazidi woman. Fawzia Amin Sido was freed earlier this week and was greeted by her emotional family as soon as she returned to her native Iraq. “Fawzia, a Yazidi girl kidnapped by ISIS from Iraq and brought to Gaza at just 11 years old, has finally been rescued by the Israeli security forces,” tweeted David Saranga, the director of the digital diplomacy bureau at Israel’s foreign ministry. “For years, she was held captive by a Palestinian Hamas-ISIS member. She has now been reunited with her family." He added that "her story is a reminder of the brutality faced by Yazidi children, taken without a choice." Notably, ISIS captured more than 6,000 Yazidis in 2014, with many of them being sold into sexual slavery and others trained as child soldiers. Sido is said to be in good physical condition, although she is mentally traumatised after spending all these years in captivity, Iraqi officials said. Also Read: Israeli strikes near Beirut airport reportedly targeted Nasrallah's successor Israel, Jordan and Iraq were also part of the operation, according to officials. ISIS captured Yazidis 10 years back Yazidi communities across Iraq faced terror attacks by Islamic State jihadists in 2014 and this is when Sido was taken as a young girl from her family. She was quickly sold off before being trafficked to Gaza, where she spent the next 10 years in captivity. Reports suggest that the Iraqi officials were in touch with the woman for several months before the rescue efforts were conducted this week. She had also given her information to US officials. Iraqi officials further informed that efforts to rescue her had been on for months. However, the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza hampered the plans and they faced failure on several occasions over the past four months. No details about the rescue operation have been revealed, although a State Department spokesperson said that Sido’s captor was recently killed, and this led her to seek repatriation. Of the more than 6,000 Yazidis captured in 2014, 2,600 remain missing with most of them feared dead. Around 3,500 have been rescued or freed.

Girl taken as ISIS slave at age 11, held captive for 10 years by Hamas, is rescued from Gaza

US forces conducted two separate strikes in&nbsp;Syria, killing 37 "terrorist operatives" including members of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din, the military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday.

A September 24 strike in northwest&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;killed nine "terrorist operatives," including senior Hurras al-Din leader Marwan Bassam 'Abd-al-Ra'uf, the US military said.

A September 16 strike in central&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;targeted an IS training camp and killed at least 28 people, including four senior leaders, the statement said. It did not identify the leaders.&nbsp;

The US military has around 900 troops in&nbsp;Syria&nbsp;as part of the international coalition against the Islamic State group. The coalition was established in 2014 to help combat the armed group, which had taken over vast swaths of Iraq and&nbsp;Syria.

"These strikes against leadership and operatives of ISIS and the Al Qaeda affiliate, Hurras al-Din, represent CENTCOM's commitment to the enduring defeat of terrorist organizations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility and our support to regional stability," said General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM's commander.

Anti-IS coalition forces have been targeted dozens of times with drones and rocket fire in both Iraq and&nbsp;Syria, as violence related to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza since last year has drawn in armed groups across the Middle East.&nbsp;

US forces have carried out multiple retaliatory strikes against militant factions in both countries.

In August, US forces killed another Hurras al-Din leader, Abu Abdul Rahman al-Makki, in a strike in&nbsp;Syria.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

US forces conducted two separate strikes in Syria, killing 37 "terrorist operatives" including members of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din, the military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday.

US forces conducted two separate strikes in Syria, killing 37 "terrorist operatives" including members of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din, the military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday. A September 24 strike in northwest Syria killed nine "terrorist operatives," including senior Hurras al-Din leader Marwan Bassam 'Abd-al-Ra'uf, the US military said. A September 16 strike in central Syria targeted an IS training camp and killed at least 28 people, including four senior leaders, the statement said. It did not identify the leaders. The US military has around 900 troops in Syria as part of the international coalition against the Islamic State group. The coalition was established in 2014 to help combat the armed group, which had taken over vast swaths of Iraq and Syria. "These strikes against leadership and operatives of ISIS and the Al Qaeda affiliate, Hurras al-Din, represent CENTCOM's commitment to the enduring defeat of terrorist organizations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility and our support to regional stability," said General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM's commander. Anti-IS coalition forces have been targeted dozens of times with drones and rocket fire in both Iraq and Syria, as violence related to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza since last year has drawn in armed groups across the Middle East. US forces have carried out multiple retaliatory strikes against militant factions in both countries. In August, US forces killed another Hurras al-Din leader, Abu Abdul Rahman al-Makki, in a strike in Syria. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US military kills 37 terrorist operatives in Syria

US forces conducted two separate strikes in Syria, killing 37 "terrorist operatives," including members of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din, the military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday.

A September 24 strike in northwest Syria killed nine "terrorist operatives," including senior Hurras al-Din leader Marwan Bassam 'Abd-al-Ra'uf, the US military said.

A September 16 strike in central Syria targeted an IS training camp and killed at least 28 people, including four senior leaders, the statement said. It did not identify the leaders.&nbsp;

The US military has around 900 troops in Syria as part of the international coalition against the Islamic State group. The coalition was established in 2014 to help combat the armed group, which had taken over vast swaths of Iraq and Syria.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasrallah-death-netanyahu-reveals-he-gave-the-order-to-kill-hezbollah-chief-he-would-have-quickly-762857">Netanyahu reveals he issued the ‘order’ to kill Hezbollah chief Nasrallah</a>

"These strikes against leadership and operatives of ISIS and the Al Qaeda affiliate, Hurras al-Din, represent CENTCOM's commitment to the enduring defeat of terrorist organizations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility and our support to regional stability," said General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM's commander.

Anti-IS coalition forces have been targeted dozens of times with drones and rocket fire in both Iraq and Syria, as violence related to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza since last year has drawn in armed groups across the Middle East.&nbsp;

US forces have carried out multiple retaliatory strikes against militant factions in both countries.

In August, US forces killed another Hurras al-Din leader, Abu Abdul Rahman al-Makki, in a strike in Syria.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

US forces conducted two separate strikes in Syria, killing 37 "terrorist operatives," including members of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din, the military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday.

US forces conducted two separate strikes in Syria, killing 37 "terrorist operatives," including members of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din, the military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said Sunday. A September 24 strike in northwest Syria killed nine "terrorist operatives," including senior Hurras al-Din leader Marwan Bassam 'Abd-al-Ra'uf, the US military said. A September 16 strike in central Syria targeted an IS training camp and killed at least 28 people, including four senior leaders, the statement said. It did not identify the leaders. The US military has around 900 troops in Syria as part of the international coalition against the Islamic State group. The coalition was established in 2014 to help combat the armed group, which had taken over vast swaths of Iraq and Syria. Also read: Netanyahu reveals he issued the ‘order’ to kill Hezbollah chief Nasrallah "These strikes against leadership and operatives of ISIS and the Al Qaeda affiliate, Hurras al-Din, represent CENTCOM's commitment to the enduring defeat of terrorist organizations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility and our support to regional stability," said General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM's commander. Anti-IS coalition forces have been targeted dozens of times with drones and rocket fire in both Iraq and Syria, as violence related to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza since last year has drawn in armed groups across the Middle East. US forces have carried out multiple retaliatory strikes against militant factions in both countries. In August, US forces killed another Hurras al-Din leader, Abu Abdul Rahman al-Makki, in a strike in Syria. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US airstrikes in Syria eliminate 37 militants including top ISIS, Al Qaeda affiliate leaders

The global anti-money laundering and terror financing body, the FATF (Financial Action Task Force), on Thursday (Sep 19) launched its much-awaited mutual evaluation report on India, saying the country's systems were "effective" but "major improvements" were required to strengthen prosecution in these cases.

The report said that the country faced "disparate" range of terror threats, most significantly from ISIL (Islamic State or ISIS) or AQ-linked groups (Al Qaeda) active in and around Jammu and Kashmir.

The 368-page report was released after the assessment was adopted by the Paris-headquartered body at its June plenary meeting. The last such review of India's combating of money laundering and terror financing regime was published in 2010.

The report, which comes after an on-site visit of FATF experts to India last November, has placed the country in the "regular follow-up" category, a distinction shared by only four other G20 countries. India will undergo its next evaluation in 2031. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jk-india-alarmed-by-china-made-handsets-used-by-pakistani-terrorists-734717">Watch |&nbsp;J&amp;K: India alarmed by China-made handsets used by Pakistani terrorists</a>

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The report said India implemented such an anti-money laundering (AML) and combating financing of terror (CFT) system that was effective in many respects. It, however, said "major improvements" were required to strengthen the prosecution in money laundering and terror financing cases.

It said improvements in the system were also required to protect the non-profit sector from terror abuse.

"India's main sources of money laundering originate from within, from illegal activities committed within country," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fatf-recognises-indias-efforts-to-combat-money-laundering-terrorist-financing-736144">Also read |&nbsp;FATF recognises India's efforts to combat money laundering, terrorist financing</a>

The report analyses the level of compliance with the FATF 40 Recommendations and the level of effectiveness of India's AML/CFT system, and provides recommendations on how the system can be strengthened.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The global anti-money laundering and terror financing body, the FATF (Financial Action Task Force), on Thursday (Sep 19) launched its much-awaited mutual evaluation report on India, saying the country's systems were "effective" but "major improvements" were required to strengthen prosecution in these cases.

The global anti-money laundering and terror financing body, the FATF (Financial Action Task Force), on Thursday (Sep 19) launched its much-awaited mutual evaluation report on India, saying the country's systems were "effective" but "major improvements" were required to strengthen prosecution in these cases. The report said that the country faced "disparate" range of terror threats, most significantly from ISIL (Islamic State or ISIS) or AQ-linked groups (Al Qaeda) active in and around Jammu and Kashmir. The 368-page report was released after the assessment was adopted by the Paris-headquartered body at its June plenary meeting. The last such review of India's combating of money laundering and terror financing regime was published in 2010. The report, which comes after an on-site visit of FATF experts to India last November, has placed the country in the "regular follow-up" category, a distinction shared by only four other G20 countries. India will undergo its next evaluation in 2031. Watch | J&K: India alarmed by China-made handsets used by Pakistani terrorists × The report said India implemented such an anti-money laundering (AML) and combating financing of terror (CFT) system that was effective in many respects. It, however, said "major improvements" were required to strengthen the prosecution in money laundering and terror financing cases. It said improvements in the system were also required to protect the non-profit sector from terror abuse. "India's main sources of money laundering originate from within, from illegal activities committed within country," it said. Also read | FATF recognises India's efforts to combat money laundering, terrorist financing The report analyses the level of compliance with the FATF 40 Recommendations and the level of effectiveness of India's AML/CFT system, and provides recommendations on how the system can be strengthened. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Islamic State, Al Qaeda biggest terrorism threat in India's Jammu and Kashmir: FATF

The Daesh/ISIS terrorist group claimed responsibility Thursday for an attack on Shia Hazaras In Afghanistan that left at least 14 people dead. The group announced its involvement through a social media post.

Afghanistan shooting target Hazara Shiite Community

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