The Islamic State held about a third of Syria and 40% of Iraq. By 2017 ISIS had lost 95% of its territory including its two biggest properties. Watch in the report to know more about the ISIS terror group.

Explained: ISIS terror group setting stronger

Explained: ISIS terror group's presence in Africa, new tactics in Asia

Islamic State terror group launched a major recruitment drive last year to deploy militants based out of Central Asian countries including Tajikistan, western and other intelligence services said. Three of the four suspected terrorists arrested by the Russian security forces for the attack at a Moscow concert hall&nbsp;— the worst terror attack in Russia in decades&nbsp;— are reportedly Tajik nationals.

One of the three is even heard speaking Tajik during the interrogation of four alleged attackers detained by the Russian security forces.&nbsp;

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow, which killed about 140 people and described it as "a powerful blow against Russia". The group also posted footage that appears to be taken by attackers as they opened fire on concertgoers in Moscow last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-isis-deploys-cryptocurrency-nato-grade-weapons-to-revive-its-reign-of-terror-625052">Explained | ISIS deploys cryptocurrency, NATO-grade weapons to revive its reign of terror</a>

According to the intelligence shared with the United Nations, over the last 12 months, the Islamic State offshoot based out of Afghanistan, the Islamic State (Khorasan) recruited top militants from Jamaat Ansarullah, a Tajikistan extremist Islamist group, as well as others in central Asia.&nbsp;

Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) also set up a Telegram channel and used multiple other social media platforms to broadcast propaganda aimed at recruiting Tajiks and other central Asian ethnicities&nbsp;in the region.

Also watch |&nbsp;Terror Attack in Moscow: Russia's Putin lights candle in memory of concert attack victims

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The report, <a href="https://reliefweb.int/report/world/eighteenth-report-secretary-general-threat-posed-isil-daesh-international-peace-and-security-and-range-united-nations-efforts-support-member-states-countering-threat-s2024117-enarruzh">submitted</a> to the UN Security Council in January, reported a "high concentration of terrorist groups in Afghanistan" and said that "notwithstanding a decrease in the number of attacks perpetrated by Isil-K [ISKP] and its recent loss of territory, casualties and high attrition among senior and mid-tier leadership figures … the group [is seen] as the greatest threat within Afghanistan, with the ability to project a threat into the region and beyond".

It added that the group "adopted a more inclusive recruitment strategy, including by focusing on attracting disillusioned Taliban and foreign fighters".

(With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State terror group launched a major recruitment drive last year to deploy militants based out of Central Asian countries including Tajikistan, western and other intelligence services said.

Islamic State terror group launched a major recruitment drive last year to deploy militants based out of Central Asian countries including Tajikistan, western and other intelligence services said. Three of the four suspected terrorists arrested by the Russian security forces for the attack at a Moscow concert hall — the worst terror attack in Russia in decades — are reportedly Tajik nationals. One of the three is even heard speaking Tajik during the interrogation of four alleged attackers detained by the Russian security forces. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow, which killed about 140 people and described it as "a powerful blow against Russia". The group also posted footage that appears to be taken by attackers as they opened fire on concertgoers in Moscow last week. Also read | Explained | ISIS deploys cryptocurrency, NATO-grade weapons to revive its reign of terror According to the intelligence shared with the United Nations, over the last 12 months, the Islamic State offshoot based out of Afghanistan, the Islamic State (Khorasan) recruited top militants from Jamaat Ansarullah, a Tajikistan extremist Islamist group, as well as others in central Asia. Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) also set up a Telegram channel and used multiple other social media platforms to broadcast propaganda aimed at recruiting Tajiks and other central Asian ethnicities in the region. Also watch | Terror Attack in Moscow: Russia's Putin lights candle in memory of concert attack victims × The report, submitted to the UN Security Council in January, reported a "high concentration of terrorist groups in Afghanistan" and said that "notwithstanding a decrease in the number of attacks perpetrated by Isil-K [ISKP] and its recent loss of territory, casualties and high attrition among senior and mid-tier leadership figures … the group [is seen] as the greatest threat within Afghanistan, with the ability to project a threat into the region and beyond". It added that the group "adopted a more inclusive recruitment strategy, including by focusing on attracting disillusioned Taliban and foreign fighters". (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State's Afghan offshoot recruited Tajik nationals ahead of Moscow terror attack: Report

The jihadist group Islamic State (IS), which claimed responsibility for the deadly terror attack on a Moscow concert hall, has released visuals of the&nbsp;incident showing the assailants who carried out the assault.

The purported minute-and-a-half-long video of the attack shot by the gunmen showed individuals with blurred faces armed with knives and assault rifles.

The attackers appear to be in the lobby of the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Krasnogorsk, northwest of the Russian capital.

The assailants can be seen jumping into a shooting rampage firing several bursts of gunfire, multiple inert bodies can be seen scattered and a fire can be seen starting in the background.

The video, according to the SITE monitoring group, appeared on a Telegram account which is considered to be IS' news arm Amaq.

The attack claimed the lives of at least 137 people.

<h2>Putin vows action against perpetrators&nbsp;</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed action against the perpetrators of the devastating attack in his address on Saturday.

During the televised address, the Russian leader said, "All the executors, planners and those who ordered this crime will be rightfully and inevitably punished, whoever they are and whoever directed them. Let me repeat: we will identify and punish everyone who stood behind the terrorists, who prepared this attack against Russia, against our people."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jaishankar-dials-russian-counterpart-lavrov-expresses-condolence-over-loss-of-lives-in-moscow-terror-attack-703825">Jaishankar dials Lavrov, condoles loss of lives in Moscow terror attack</a>

Citing a probe into the attack, he also claimed that four attackers were fleeing towards Ukraine when they were nabbed.&nbsp;

"Regarding the investigation of this crime and results of operational search actions, I can now say the following: all four of the actual performers of the act of terror, all those who shot and killed people were found and detained. They tried to hide and were moving in the direction of Ukraine."

"There, according to the preliminary data, they had a crossing of the border prepared from the Ukrainian side. Overall, 11 people were detained," Putin added.

<h2>‘Low-life Putin trying to shift blame,’ says Zelensky</h2>

Following the Russian leader's remarks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a nightly public address condemned Russia for trying to shift the blame for the attack on Kyiv.&nbsp;

Calling Russian president Vladimir Putin a “low-life”, Zelensky said: “What happened yesterday in Moscow is obvious: Putin and the other scum are just trying to blame it on someone else … They always have the same methods.”

The untoward incident unfolded on Friday evening at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, on the western outskirts of the Russian capital.

The terrorists struck the venue with a capacity of 7,500 at the time it was almost full.

The attack struck the concert hall minutes before the performance by Russian rock band Picnic, reported RT news agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The jihadist group Islamic State (IS), which claimed responsibility for the deadly terror attack on a Moscow concert hall, has released visuals of the incident showing the assailants who carried out the assault.

The jihadist group Islamic State (IS), which claimed responsibility for the deadly terror attack on a Moscow concert hall, has released visuals of the incident showing the assailants who carried out the assault. The purported minute-and-a-half-long video of the attack shot by the gunmen showed individuals with blurred faces armed with knives and assault rifles. The attackers appear to be in the lobby of the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Krasnogorsk, northwest of the Russian capital. The assailants can be seen jumping into a shooting rampage firing several bursts of gunfire, multiple inert bodies can be seen scattered and a fire can be seen starting in the background. The video, according to the SITE monitoring group, appeared on a Telegram account which is considered to be IS' news arm Amaq. The attack claimed the lives of at least 137 people. Putin vows action against perpetrators Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed action against the perpetrators of the devastating attack in his address on Saturday. During the televised address, the Russian leader said, "All the executors, planners and those who ordered this crime will be rightfully and inevitably punished, whoever they are and whoever directed them. Let me repeat: we will identify and punish everyone who stood behind the terrorists, who prepared this attack against Russia, against our people." Also read: Jaishankar dials Lavrov, condoles loss of lives in Moscow terror attack Citing a probe into the attack, he also claimed that four attackers were fleeing towards Ukraine when they were nabbed. "Regarding the investigation of this crime and results of operational search actions, I can now say the following: all four of the actual performers of the act of terror, all those who shot and killed people were found and detained. They tried to hide and were moving in the direction of Ukraine." "There, according to the preliminary data, they had a crossing of the border prepared from the Ukrainian side. Overall, 11 people were detained," Putin added. ‘Low-life Putin trying to shift blame,’ says Zelensky Following the Russian leader's remarks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a nightly public address condemned Russia for trying to shift the blame for the attack on Kyiv. Calling Russian president Vladimir Putin a “low-life”, Zelensky said: “What happened yesterday in Moscow is obvious: Putin and the other scum are just trying to blame it on someone else … They always have the same methods.” The untoward incident unfolded on Friday evening at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, on the western outskirts of the Russian capital. The terrorists struck the venue with a capacity of 7,500 at the time it was almost full. The attack struck the concert hall minutes before the performance by Russian rock band Picnic, reported RT news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State shares footage of gunmen carrying out deadly Moscow attack

A fourth-year student from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati was detained in Assam's Hajo on Saturday (Mar 23) evening. The reason, he had allegedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) and was travelling to join the terrorist outfit. In a post on X, Assam's Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh said, "Reference IIT Guwahati student pledging allegiance to ISIS - the said student has been detained while travelling and further lawful follow up would take place."

The student was nabbed four days after ISIS India head Haris Farooqi alias Harish Ajmal Farukhi and his associate Anurag Singh alias Rehan were arrested in Dhubri district after they had crossed over from Bangladesh.

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Reference <a href="https://twitter.com/IITGuwahati?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IITGuwahati</a> student pledging allegiance to ISIS - the said student has been detained while travelling and further lawful follow up would take place. <a href="https://twitter.com/assampolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@assampolice</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeAssam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOfficeAssam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a>
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Speaking to the news agency PTI, Additional Superintendent of Police (Special Task Force also known as STF) Kalyan Kumar Pathak said, "After receiving an email, we got about to verify the authenticity of the contents and started an investigation."

ASP Pathak said that IIT-Guwahati's authorities were immediately contacted, who informed them that the said student had been missing since noon and his mobile phone was also switched off.

A search was started to locate him and he was nabbed from the Hajo area, around 30 km from Guwahati, in the evening with the help of locals, he added. The student hailed from Delhi's Oklha

Pathak also told PTI that the student was brought to the STF office after initial questioning. The ASP further said a black flag, "purportedly similar to that of ISIS", was found in his hostel room and was being sent for verification to specialised agencies which deal with proscribed outfits.

"We are going through the items seized, it is early to say much. We are investigating the intention of sending the email. The student has given some details, but we cannot disclose anything further now," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fourth-year student from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati was detained in Assam's Hajo on Saturday (Mar 23) evening. The reason, he had allegedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) and was travelling to join the terrorist outfit.

A fourth-year student from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati was detained in Assam's Hajo on Saturday (Mar 23) evening. The reason, he had allegedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) and was travelling to join the terrorist outfit. In a post on X, Assam's Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh said, "Reference IIT Guwahati student pledging allegiance to ISIS - the said student has been detained while travelling and further lawful follow up would take place." The student was nabbed four days after ISIS India head Haris Farooqi alias Harish Ajmal Farukhi and his associate Anurag Singh alias Rehan were arrested in Dhubri district after they had crossed over from Bangladesh. Reference @IITGuwahati student pledging allegiance to ISIS - the said student has been detained while travelling and further lawful follow up would take place. @assampolice @CMOfficeAssam @HMOIndia — GP Singh (@gpsinghips) March 23, 2024 × Speaking to the news agency PTI, Additional Superintendent of Police (Special Task Force also known as STF) Kalyan Kumar Pathak said, "After receiving an email, we got about to verify the authenticity of the contents and started an investigation." ASP Pathak said that IIT-Guwahati's authorities were immediately contacted, who informed them that the said student had been missing since noon and his mobile phone was also switched off. A search was started to locate him and he was nabbed from the Hajo area, around 30 km from Guwahati, in the evening with the help of locals, he added. The student hailed from Delhi's Oklha Pathak also told PTI that the student was brought to the STF office after initial questioning. The ASP further said a black flag, "purportedly similar to that of ISIS", was found in his hostel room and was being sent for verification to specialised agencies which deal with proscribed outfits. "We are going through the items seized, it is early to say much. We are investigating the intention of sending the email. The student has given some details, but we cannot disclose anything further now," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

IIT student on way to join ISIS detained in India's Assam: Police

Germany has detained two suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) for allegedly scheming an assault on the Swedish parliament in response to Koran burnings in Sweden, as announced by the federal prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.

In the city of Gera in eastern Germany, two Afghan nationals known as Ibrahim MG and Ramin N were arrested on suspicion of orchestrating the attack, according to a statement from the prosecutor’s office.

Last year, Sweden witnessed a series of Koran burnings that triggered widespread condemnation within the Muslim community and resulted in violent incidents, including the storming and defacement of Sweden’s embassy in Baghdad. These burnings, protected under Sweden’s extensive freedom of speech laws, incited outrage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-in-terrorist-attack-on-burkina-faso-church-693808" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-in-terrorist-attack-on-burkina-faso-church-693808&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi-jYDux4CFAxWiTGwGHXo5BLsQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tcz62Nmzc-SirKA_1dEJT&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-in-terrorist-attack-on-burkina-faso-church-693808" target="_blank">At least 15 killed in 'terrorist' attack on Burkina Faso church</a>

As per German prosecutors, the two suspects had plotted to target police officers and civilians using firearms in the vicinity of the Stockholm parliament. The prosecutor’s office noted that Ibrahim MG and Ramin N extensively researched the location online and made repeated but unsuccessful attempts to acquire weapons.

Both suspects had affiliations with IS Khorasan Province, a faction of the militant Islamist organisation, since 2023, and had gathered donations amounting to around 2,000 euros ($2,170) for the group. These funds were intended to aid IS members detained in northern Syria, according to the statement.

The suspects are scheduled to appear before a German court on Tuesday and Wednesday, where a decision will be made regarding their pre-trial detention.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-terrorist-arrested-in-new-delhi-is-ex-pakistan-army-person-police-687520" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-terrorist-arrested-in-new-delhi-is-ex-pakistan-army-person-police-687520&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi-jYDux4CFAxWiTGwGHXo5BLsQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0NU-dMhES1km7Jaypbt72o&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-terrorist-arrested-in-new-delhi-is-ex-pakistan-army-person-police-687520" target="_blank">LeT&nbsp;terrorist&nbsp;arrested in New Delhi is ex-armyman: Police</a>

The Swedish Security Service refrained from commenting on the German case, stating ongoing coordination with European counterparts.

(With inputs with agencies)

Germany has detained two suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) for allegedly scheming an assault on the Swedish parliament in response to Koran burnings in Sweden, as announced by the federal prosecutor’s office on Tuesday.

Germany has detained two suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) for allegedly scheming an assault on the Swedish parliament in response to Koran burnings in Sweden, as announced by the federal prosecutor’s office on Tuesday. In the city of Gera in eastern Germany, two Afghan nationals known as Ibrahim MG and Ramin N were arrested on suspicion of orchestrating the attack, according to a statement from the prosecutor’s office. Last year, Sweden witnessed a series of Koran burnings that triggered widespread condemnation within the Muslim community and resulted in violent incidents, including the storming and defacement of Sweden’s embassy in Baghdad. These burnings, protected under Sweden’s extensive freedom of speech laws, incited outrage. Also read: At least 15 killed in 'terrorist' attack on Burkina Faso church As per German prosecutors, the two suspects had plotted to target police officers and civilians using firearms in the vicinity of the Stockholm parliament. The prosecutor’s office noted that Ibrahim MG and Ramin N extensively researched the location online and made repeated but unsuccessful attempts to acquire weapons. Both suspects had affiliations with IS Khorasan Province, a faction of the militant Islamist organisation, since 2023, and had gathered donations amounting to around 2,000 euros ($2,170) for the group. These funds were intended to aid IS members detained in northern Syria, according to the statement. The suspects are scheduled to appear before a German court on Tuesday and Wednesday, where a decision will be made regarding their pre-trial detention. Also read: LeT terrorist arrested in New Delhi is ex-armyman: Police The Swedish Security Service refrained from commenting on the German case, stating ongoing coordination with European counterparts. (With inputs with agencies)

Germany detains 2 suspected Islamic State members for alleged plot to attack Swedish parliament

Thirteen truffle hunters in the Syrian desert were killed following a blast in a landmine left by the Islamic State (IS or ISIS), the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a war monitor. According to the Syria Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the explosion happened as the hunters were searching for truffles in the desert in the Raqqa province.

"Thirteen civilians, including women... were killed when a landmine left by the IS group exploded while they were searching for truffles in Raqqa," the SOHR said.&nbsp;

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These killings come after five truffle hunters were killed in a suspected IS ambush in Syria's central Homs province on Friday, state media reported. According to the news agency SANA, the assailants were on a motorcycle when they opened fire in the Jab al-Jirah area. The hunters were killed as they were picking truffles.&nbsp;

A member of the regime forces was also killed in the attack.

The Syrian desert is known for producing some of the best quality truffles in the world. Every year between February and April, foragers risk their lives to collect truffles in the desert - a known hideout for jihadists - which is also littered with landmines, AFP reported.

Authorities have repeatedly warned Syrians not to venture into the desert in search of truffles.&nbsp;

The IS carried out at least 50 attacks in the desert killing 101 members of the Syrian army and their affiliated groups, as well as 10 civilians, a report by Rudaw said on Saturday citing the SOHR.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Thirteen truffle hunters in the Syrian desert were killed following a blast in a landmine left by the Islamic State (IS or ISIS), the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a war monitor.

Thirteen truffle hunters in the Syrian desert were killed following a blast in a landmine left by the Islamic State (IS or ISIS), the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a war monitor. According to the Syria Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the explosion happened as the hunters were searching for truffles in the desert in the Raqqa province. "Thirteen civilians, including women... were killed when a landmine left by the IS group exploded while they were searching for truffles in Raqqa," the SOHR said. Also read | Shamima Begum, former 'ISIS bride', loses appeal against UK citizenship revocation These killings come after five truffle hunters were killed in a suspected IS ambush in Syria's central Homs province on Friday, state media reported. According to the news agency SANA, the assailants were on a motorcycle when they opened fire in the Jab al-Jirah area. The hunters were killed as they were picking truffles. A member of the regime forces was also killed in the attack. The Syrian desert is known for producing some of the best quality truffles in the world. Every year between February and April, foragers risk their lives to collect truffles in the desert - a known hideout for jihadists - which is also littered with landmines, AFP reported. Authorities have repeatedly warned Syrians not to venture into the desert in search of truffles. The IS carried out at least 50 attacks in the desert killing 101 members of the Syrian army and their affiliated groups, as well as 10 civilians, a report by Rudaw said on Saturday citing the SOHR. (with inputs from agencies)

13 truffle hunters killed in Syrian desert in Islamic State landmine blast

The US said on Thursday (Jan&nbsp;25) it had sent specific alerts to Iran before bombings that killed 90 people earlier this month targeting the death anniversary memorial ceremony for Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian general killed in a US drone strike in 2020.

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the twin blasts on January 3.&nbsp;

"Prior" to the Islamic State (IS) attack, the "US Government provided Iran with a private warning that there was a terrorist threat within Iranian borders," a US official said on condition of anonymity as reported by AFP.

"The US Government followed a longstanding 'duty to warn' policy... We provide these warnings in part because we do not want to see innocent lives lost in terror attacks," the official said.

Reports in the US media said that the information that was passed on to Iran was specific enough for Tehran to take steps to stop the attack or lessen the death toll.

Watch | US, Iraq initiate talks on end of US-led military coalition

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Qasem Soleimani headed Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

He was also a vital figure co-ordinating Iran's influence in the region.

Soleimani was a staunch enemy of the Islamic State, which is a Sunni extremist group.&nbsp;IS has been behind previous attacks carried out in Iran, a Shiite-majority nation.

In the aftermath of the bombings, the Islamic State said that two of its operatives activated explosive belts in "a large gathering of apostates, near the grave of their leader."

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Soleimani was an iconic figure in Iran and was revered by many Iranians. Millions of Iranians turned up at his funeral in the tear 2020.

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The United States cut diplomatic ties with Iran in 1980 after the Islamic Revolution.

The US accuses Iran of providing support to Palestinian militant group Hamas and also to Houthi rebels in Yemen, in addition to Lebanese Hezbollah and groups in Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US said on Thursday (Jan 25) it had sent specific alerts to Iran before bombings that killed 90 people earlier this month targeting the death anniversary memorial ceremony for Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian general killed in a US drone strike in 2020.

The US said on Thursday (Jan 25) it had sent specific alerts to Iran before bombings that killed 90 people earlier this month targeting the death anniversary memorial ceremony for Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian general killed in a US drone strike in 2020. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the twin blasts on January 3. "Prior" to the Islamic State (IS) attack, the "US Government provided Iran with a private warning that there was a terrorist threat within Iranian borders," a US official said on condition of anonymity as reported by AFP. "The US Government followed a longstanding 'duty to warn' policy... We provide these warnings in part because we do not want to see innocent lives lost in terror attacks," the official said. Reports in the US media said that the information that was passed on to Iran was specific enough for Tehran to take steps to stop the attack or lessen the death toll. Watch | US, Iraq initiate talks on end of US-led military coalition × Qasem Soleimani headed Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guards. He was also a vital figure co-ordinating Iran's influence in the region. Soleimani was a staunch enemy of the Islamic State, which is a Sunni extremist group. IS has been behind previous attacks carried out in Iran, a Shiite-majority nation. In the aftermath of the bombings, the Islamic State said that two of its operatives activated explosive belts in "a large gathering of apostates, near the grave of their leader." Also Read | Ex-Trump adviser Peter Navarro sentenced to 4 months for contempt of Congress Soleimani was an iconic figure in Iran and was revered by many Iranians. Millions of Iranians turned up at his funeral in the tear 2020. Also Read | US President Biden to host Japan PM for state visit in April: White House The United States cut diplomatic ties with Iran in 1980 after the Islamic Revolution. The US accuses Iran of providing support to Palestinian militant group Hamas and also to Houthi rebels in Yemen, in addition to Lebanese Hezbollah and groups in Iraq. (With inputs from agencies)

Report says US had warned Iran of attack before Islamic State twin bombings

Communications intercepts collected by the United States confirmed that Islamic State’s (ISIS) Afghanistan-based branch carried out twin bombings in Iran that killed nearly 100 people, two sources familiar with the intelligence told Reuters on Friday.

"The intelligence is clear-cut and indisputable," one source said.

That source and a second, both of whom requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive issue, said the intelligence comprised communications intercepts, without providing further details. The collection of the intercepts has not been previously reported.

Wednesday's bombings, the deadliest of their kind in Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, added to regional tensions over the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and attacks by Yemen's Tehran-aligned Houthi group on commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

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ISIS on Thursday claimed responsibility for the bombings, saying two operatives wearing explosive suicide belts staged the attack during a memorial service for Qassem Soleimani, a senior military commander assassinated in Iraq in a 2020 U.S. drone strike.

The Sunni Muslim militant group, however, did not specify that its Afghanistan-based affiliate, known as ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), was responsible for the bombings in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman.

“The U.S. has pretty clear intel” that ISIS-K conducted the attack, the first source said.

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The Central Intelligence Agency declined to comment.

ISIS harbors a virulent hatred for Shi'ites -- Iran's dominant sect and targets of its affiliate's attacks in Afghanistan -- who it views as apostates.

ISIS claimed responsibility for a 2022 attack on a Shi'ite shrine in Iran that killed 15 people and 2017 bombings that hit the parliament and the tomb of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

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Iran on Friday said security forces had arrested 11 people suspected of involvement in Wednesday's attack and had seized explosive devices and vests.

While Taliban crackdowns have weakened ISIS-K and prompted some members to leave Afghanistan for neighboring countries, the affiliate has continued focusing on plotting foreign operations, U.S. officials say.

Communications intercepts collected by the United States confirmed that Islamic State’s (ISIS) Afghanistan-based branch carried out twin bombings in Iran that killed nearly 100 people, two sources familiar with the intelligence told Reuters on Friday.

Communications intercepts collected by the United States confirmed that Islamic State’s (ISIS) Afghanistan-based branch carried out twin bombings in Iran that killed nearly 100 people, two sources familiar with the intelligence told Reuters on Friday. "The intelligence is clear-cut and indisputable," one source said. That source and a second, both of whom requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive issue, said the intelligence comprised communications intercepts, without providing further details. The collection of the intercepts has not been previously reported. Wednesday's bombings, the deadliest of their kind in Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, added to regional tensions over the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and attacks by Yemen's Tehran-aligned Houthi group on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Also Read | Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin was hospitalised, defence department gives update ISIS on Thursday claimed responsibility for the bombings, saying two operatives wearing explosive suicide belts staged the attack during a memorial service for Qassem Soleimani, a senior military commander assassinated in Iraq in a 2020 U.S. drone strike. The Sunni Muslim militant group, however, did not specify that its Afghanistan-based affiliate, known as ISIS-Khorasan (ISIS-K), was responsible for the bombings in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman. “The U.S. has pretty clear intel” that ISIS-K conducted the attack, the first source said. Also Read | Sixth-grader killed in Iowa school shooting identified, injured principal in critical condition The Central Intelligence Agency declined to comment. ISIS harbors a virulent hatred for Shi'ites -- Iran's dominant sect and targets of its affiliate's attacks in Afghanistan -- who it views as apostates. ISIS claimed responsibility for a 2022 attack on a Shi'ite shrine in Iran that killed 15 people and 2017 bombings that hit the parliament and the tomb of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Watch | Japan Earthquake: Rescuers race against time to find survivors, death toll rises to 94 × Iran on Friday said security forces had arrested 11 people suspected of involvement in Wednesday's attack and had seized explosive devices and vests. While Taliban crackdowns have weakened ISIS-K and prompted some members to leave Afghanistan for neighboring countries, the affiliate has continued focusing on plotting foreign operations, U.S. officials say.

US intel confirms Islamic State's Afghanistan branch behind Iran blasts: Report

Turkish authorities have detained 304 people suspected of having ties to militant group Islamic State that&nbsp;operates&nbsp;across 32 provinces, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Friday.

The majority of the suspects were detained in&nbsp;Turkey's three biggest cities of Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir, Yerlikaya said&nbsp;Yerlikaya on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;He said the "Operation Heroes-34", was carried out simultaneously across the country.

Watch:&nbsp;Turkey proposes own connectivity project with Iraq

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"We will not allow any terrorists to open their eyes, for the peace and unity of our people. We will continue our battle with the intense efforts of our security forces," he said, sharing footage of the operations which showed police entering apartments and buildings and dragging suspects into vehicles.

Islamic State controlled one-third of Iraq and Syria at its 2014 peak. Though beaten back, it continues to wage insurgent attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/turkey-saves-billions-on-russian-oil-amid-sanctions-boosting-imports-671228">Also read:&nbsp;Turkey saves billions on Russian oil amid sanctions, boosting imports</a>

It has conducted numerous attacks across Turkey, including on a nightclub in Istanbul on Jan. 1, 2017, in which 39 people were killed.

Authorities have ramped up operations against Islamic State and Kurdish militants in recent weeks, after Kurdish militants detonated a bomb near government buildings in Ankara on Oct 1.

Turkey regularly conducts operations at home and in northern Iraq on the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which it regards as a terrorist organisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish authorities have detained 304 people suspected of having ties to militant group Islamic State that operates across 32 provinces, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Friday.

Turkish authorities have detained 304 people suspected of having ties to militant group Islamic State that operates across 32 provinces, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Friday. The majority of the suspects were detained in Turkey's three biggest cities of Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir, Yerlikaya said Yerlikaya on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. He said the "Operation Heroes-34", was carried out simultaneously across the country. Watch: Turkey proposes own connectivity project with Iraq × "We will not allow any terrorists to open their eyes, for the peace and unity of our people. We will continue our battle with the intense efforts of our security forces," he said, sharing footage of the operations which showed police entering apartments and buildings and dragging suspects into vehicles. Islamic State controlled one-third of Iraq and Syria at its 2014 peak. Though beaten back, it continues to wage insurgent attacks. Also read: Turkey saves billions on Russian oil amid sanctions, boosting imports It has conducted numerous attacks across Turkey, including on a nightclub in Istanbul on Jan. 1, 2017, in which 39 people were killed. Authorities have ramped up operations against Islamic State and Kurdish militants in recent weeks, after Kurdish militants detonated a bomb near government buildings in Ankara on Oct 1. Turkey regularly conducts operations at home and in northern Iraq on the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which it regards as a terrorist organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey: 304 people arrested over suspected ties to Islamic State

The Islamic State jihadist group claimed on its Telegram channel Friday that it was behind a blast at a sports club that killed four people in the Afghan capital the night before.

The Sunni Muslim extremist group said it had used a parcel bomb that "IS fighters placed in a room where Shiites gather".

The explosion occurred Thursday evening at a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community, according to police.

Police were still investigating the cause of the explosion, Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said on Friday afternoon in a message to reporters.&nbsp;

He added that seven people were injured in the blast, revising the initial toll of two dead and nine injured.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/about-200-afghan-refugees-to-relocate-from-pakistan-to-uk-on-charter-flights-on-oct-26-651419">About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26</a>

Taliban authorities did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Islamic State (IS) claim.&nbsp;

The explosion ripped through a sports club several floors up in the commercial centre, blowing out all the sides of the space and shattering windows and causing damage throughout the block, AFP journalists saw on Friday.

An instructor at the club, which holds training in combat sports, told AFP the blast happened at the end of a busy boxing session that usually hosted some 30 people. &nbsp;

"The explosion was extraordinarily strong. The walls fell, the metal doors, glass and windows were broken", said 26-year-old Sultan Ali Amiri, who was not in the club when the blast occurred. "There has been a lot of damage, punching bags and almost everything is destroyed."

AFP journalists saw several heavy bags used for combat sport training on the floor of the club, others still hanging and pocked with fragments from the blast.

Afghanistan's Hazaras have regularly faced attacks in the majority Sunni Muslim country.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-two-killed-nine-injured-after-blast-in-predominantly-shiite-kabul-neighbourhood-651747">&nbsp;Afghanistan: At least two killed, nine injured after blast in predominantly Shiite Kabul neighbourhood</a>

They have been persecuted for decades, targeted by the Taliban during their insurgency against the former US-backed government as well as by IS.

The Islamic State group, which considers Shiites heretics, has carried out several deadly attacks in the same area in recent years targeting schools, mosques and gyms.

Images shared on social media shortly after the explosion showed a fire blazing in the sports club and boxing mitts among shattered glass on the ground.

The number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks has reduced dramatically since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government.

However, a number of armed groups -- including the regional chapter of IS -- remain a threat. 
 
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The Islamic State jihadist group claimed on its Telegram channel Friday that it was behind a blast at a sports club that killed four people in the Afghan capital the night before.

The Islamic State jihadist group claimed on its Telegram channel Friday that it was behind a blast at a sports club that killed four people in the Afghan capital the night before. The Sunni Muslim extremist group said it had used a parcel bomb that "IS fighters placed in a room where Shiites gather". The explosion occurred Thursday evening at a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community, according to police. Police were still investigating the cause of the explosion, Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said on Friday afternoon in a message to reporters. He added that seven people were injured in the blast, revising the initial toll of two dead and nine injured. ALSO READ | About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26 Taliban authorities did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Islamic State (IS) claim. The explosion ripped through a sports club several floors up in the commercial centre, blowing out all the sides of the space and shattering windows and causing damage throughout the block, AFP journalists saw on Friday. An instructor at the club, which holds training in combat sports, told AFP the blast happened at the end of a busy boxing session that usually hosted some 30 people. "The explosion was extraordinarily strong. The walls fell, the metal doors, glass and windows were broken", said 26-year-old Sultan Ali Amiri, who was not in the club when the blast occurred. "There has been a lot of damage, punching bags and almost everything is destroyed." AFP journalists saw several heavy bags used for combat sport training on the floor of the club, others still hanging and pocked with fragments from the blast. Afghanistan's Hazaras have regularly faced attacks in the majority Sunni Muslim country. ALSO READ | Afghanistan: At least two killed, nine injured after blast in predominantly Shiite Kabul neighbourhood They have been persecuted for decades, targeted by the Taliban during their insurgency against the former US-backed government as well as by IS. The Islamic State group, which considers Shiites heretics, has carried out several deadly attacks in the same area in recent years targeting schools, mosques and gyms. Images shared on social media shortly after the explosion showed a fire blazing in the sports club and boxing mitts among shattered glass on the ground. The number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks has reduced dramatically since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government. However, a number of armed groups -- including the regional chapter of IS -- remain a threat. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Afghanistan: Islamic State group claims responsibility for blast that killed two in Kabul

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-strikes-gaza-lebanon-overnight-650107">Israel-Hamas war</a> might spread to&nbsp;the West Asian region, or even in the far West, including nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, as al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have asked their followers to strike Israeli, US and Jewish targets.&nbsp;

In the past two weeks, militant groups linked to al-Qaeda have congratulated the Palestine-based Hamas on its "invasion of Israel".&nbsp;

On Oct 7, Hamas militants launched unprecedented attacks on Israel, killing over 1,400 people and injuring hundreds. They also took around 200 people as hostages.&nbsp;

Israel, in retaliatory action, officially declared war on Hamas, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to reduce to "rubble" the group's hideouts in Gaza.&nbsp;

Massive destruction has been reported and hundreds of people have been killed on both sides, with tensions escalating each day.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;

Al-Shabaab, which is al-Qaeda's powerful affiliate in Somalia, said in a statement that the conflict in West Asia was not just "the battle of the Islamic factions in the land of Palestine in particular, but rather the battle of the entire Muslim Ummah".&nbsp;

"Muslims must gather and offer everything they can to support the mujahideen against the Jews and their hypocritical infidel allies. The strength of this nation lies in the strength of its jihadist fronts," it added.&nbsp;

Some other groups which are affiliates of al-Qaeda and based in the Indian subcontinent, Yemen, and Syria also echoed al-Shabaab's calls.&nbsp;

The Long War Journal, which is a US-based news website that reports on the war on terror, said that al-Qaeda branches in North and West Africa praised the Hamas attacks on Israel.&nbsp;

While hailing the Oct 7 attacks, the group said, "We congratulate your actions and urge you to continue, biting your teeth with patience on the path of jihad. They [the Palestinians] attacked the Jews … wanting to lift the sword of humiliation from their necks."&nbsp;

Such calls have raised the prospects of new terrorist violence across the world. It already seems to have spread, with reports of violent protests and violence in different parts of the world.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-fresh-explosions-rock-gaza-netanyahu-warns-hezbollah-top-updates-650097">Fresh explosions rock Gaza, Netanyahu warns Hezbollah</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pro-Palestine rallies across the world&nbsp;

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<h2>Hamas got instructions on how to make chemical weapons&nbsp;</h2>

Israeli President Isaac Herzog claimed that Hamas fighters who attacked Israel were carrying instructions on how to make chemical weapons. During an interview with Sky News, President Herzog showed documents, complete with diagrams.&nbsp;

During the interview, Herzog said: "It's al-Qaeda material. Official al-Qaeda material. We are dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda and Hamas. This is how shocking the situation is where we're looking at the instructions that are given on how to operate and how to create a kind of non-professional chemical weapon with cyanide."&nbsp;

However, there's no confirmation of whether or not the Hamas military was carrying the elements to make a bomb on them.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israel-Hamas war might spread to the West Asian region, or even in the far West, including nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, as al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have asked their followers to strike Israeli, US and Jewish targets.

The Israel-Hamas war might spread to the West Asian region, or even in the far West, including nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, as al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) have asked their followers to strike Israeli, US and Jewish targets. In the past two weeks, militant groups linked to al-Qaeda have congratulated the Palestine-based Hamas on its "invasion of Israel". On Oct 7, Hamas militants launched unprecedented attacks on Israel, killing over 1,400 people and injuring hundreds. They also took around 200 people as hostages. Israel, in retaliatory action, officially declared war on Hamas, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to reduce to "rubble" the group's hideouts in Gaza. Massive destruction has been reported and hundreds of people have been killed on both sides, with tensions escalating each day. Also read: A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack Al-Shabaab, which is al-Qaeda's powerful affiliate in Somalia, said in a statement that the conflict in West Asia was not just "the battle of the Islamic factions in the land of Palestine in particular, but rather the battle of the entire Muslim Ummah". "Muslims must gather and offer everything they can to support the mujahideen against the Jews and their hypocritical infidel allies. The strength of this nation lies in the strength of its jihadist fronts," it added. Some other groups which are affiliates of al-Qaeda and based in the Indian subcontinent, Yemen, and Syria also echoed al-Shabaab's calls. The Long War Journal, which is a US-based news website that reports on the war on terror, said that al-Qaeda branches in North and West Africa praised the Hamas attacks on Israel. While hailing the Oct 7 attacks, the group said, "We congratulate your actions and urge you to continue, biting your teeth with patience on the path of jihad. They [the Palestinians] attacked the Jews … wanting to lift the sword of humiliation from their necks." Such calls have raised the prospects of new terrorist violence across the world. It already seems to have spread, with reports of violent protests and violence in different parts of the world. Also read: Fresh explosions rock Gaza, Netanyahu warns Hezbollah Watch: Pro-Palestine rallies across the world × Hamas got instructions on how to make chemical weapons Israeli President Isaac Herzog claimed that Hamas fighters who attacked Israel were carrying instructions on how to make chemical weapons. During an interview with Sky News, President Herzog showed documents, complete with diagrams. During the interview, Herzog said: "It's al-Qaeda material. Official al-Qaeda material. We are dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda and Hamas. This is how shocking the situation is where we're looking at the instructions that are given on how to operate and how to create a kind of non-professional chemical weapon with cyanide." However, there's no confirmation of whether or not the Hamas military was carrying the elements to make a bomb on them. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks

A most wanted Islamic State terrorist was arrested in India's New Delhi amid a major crackdown by the country's top anti-terror agency. The Delhi police special cell has arrested Shahnawaz Alias Shafi a suspected most wanted terrorist affiliated with the Islamic State. Shahnawaz has been on the National Investigation Agency's most-wanted list.

Islamic State terrorist Shahnawaz, 2 associates held in New Delhi

US forces captured an Islamic State official, identified as Abu Halil al-Fad'ani, after conducting a helicopter raid in northern Syria on Saturday, the US Central Command said on Monday (Sep 25).

"Abu Halil al-Fad'ani, an ISIS Syria Operational and Facilitation official, was captured during the raid," it said in a statement.

"Al-Fad'ani was assessed to have relationships throughout the ISIS network in the region."&nbsp;

"The capture of ISIS officials like al-Fad'ani increases our ability to locate, target, and remove terrorists from the battlefield,"&nbsp;said the Central Command spokesperson Troy Garlock.

"USCENTCOM remains committed to the enduring defeat of ISIS," Reuters news agency quoted him as saying.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-black-sea-fleet-commander-attends-meeting-after-ukraine-claims-killing-him-639807">Russian Black Sea Fleet commander attends meeting after Ukraine claims killing him</a>&nbsp;

This comes amid the US-backed Kurdish-led forces imposed a curfew after continued skirmishes with rival Arab militiamen.

Citing media reports and activists, The Associated Press reported that the Syrian Democratic Forces imposed the curfew Monday in several towns in Deir el-Zour province, including in Ziban, close to the Iraqi border where the Americans are based.&nbsp;

CNN reported that CENTCOM forces and coalition partners conducted eight partner operations in Syria in August.&nbsp;

CENTCOM said that in those operations, seven ISIS operatives were detained and an eighth was killed.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/news-in-numbers-the-human-economic-cost-of-the-ukraine-war-639731">News in numbers: The human &amp; economic cost of the Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;

In Iraq, 18 operatives were detained and six were killed throughout operations in August in Iraq.&nbsp;

The report added that another ISIS operative, an "ISIS attack facilitator", identified as Hudayfah al Yemeni, and two of his associates were captured in a helicopter raid in Syria in April.&nbsp;

The US has approximately 900 troops in Syria, who are focused on countering the remnants of the ISIS group, which had held a wide swath of Syria until 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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US forces captured an Islamic State official, identified as Abu Halil al-Fad'ani, after conducting a helicopter raid in northern Syria on Saturday, the US Central Command said on Monday (Sep 25).

US forces captured an Islamic State official, identified as Abu Halil al-Fad'ani, after conducting a helicopter raid in northern Syria on Saturday, the US Central Command said on Monday (Sep 25). "Abu Halil al-Fad'ani, an ISIS Syria Operational and Facilitation official, was captured during the raid," it said in a statement. "Al-Fad'ani was assessed to have relationships throughout the ISIS network in the region." "The capture of ISIS officials like al-Fad'ani increases our ability to locate, target, and remove terrorists from the battlefield," said the Central Command spokesperson Troy Garlock. "USCENTCOM remains committed to the enduring defeat of ISIS," Reuters news agency quoted him as saying. Also read: Russian Black Sea Fleet commander attends meeting after Ukraine claims killing him This comes amid the US-backed Kurdish-led forces imposed a curfew after continued skirmishes with rival Arab militiamen. Citing media reports and activists, The Associated Press reported that the Syrian Democratic Forces imposed the curfew Monday in several towns in Deir el-Zour province, including in Ziban, close to the Iraqi border where the Americans are based. CNN reported that CENTCOM forces and coalition partners conducted eight partner operations in Syria in August. CENTCOM said that in those operations, seven ISIS operatives were detained and an eighth was killed. Also read: News in numbers: The human & economic cost of the Ukraine war In Iraq, 18 operatives were detained and six were killed throughout operations in August in Iraq. The report added that another ISIS operative, an "ISIS attack facilitator", identified as Hudayfah al Yemeni, and two of his associates were captured in a helicopter raid in Syria in April. The US has approximately 900 troops in Syria, who are focused on countering the remnants of the ISIS group, which had held a wide swath of Syria until 2019. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US forces capture Islamic State official in Syria after helicopter raid

A Pakistani doctor, who was working in the US on an H1-B visa, has been handed an 18-year prison sentence for attempting to provide material support to terror organisation Islamic State and to conduct 'lone wolf' terror attacks in the US.

Muhammad Masood (31) was handed the jail term on Friday (August 25). The imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release, according to a statement from the Department of Justice.

Masood pleaded guilty to charges against him in August last year. He was sentenced before Senior Judge Paul A Magnuson.

Press Trust of India (PTI) reported that court document showed Masood to be licensed medical doctor in Pakistan. He was formerly employed as a research co-ordinator at a medical clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He had an H-1B visa.

Watch | Gravitas: Has the Pakistan Army taken over governance in a soft coup?

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Masood received an encrypted messaging application between January and March 2020 in order to facilitate his travel overseas to join a terrorist organisation. He reportedly made several statements about his wish to join the Islamic State. He pledged his allegiance to the terror organisation and its leader.

It has been reported that Masood also expressed desire to carry out 'lone wolf' terror attacks in the US.

He purchased a plane ticket from Chicago to Amman, Jordan in February 2020 and planned a travel to Syria from there.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/toshakhana-case-court-adjourns-hearing-imrans-plea-challenging-jail-sentence-till-aug-28-629064">Toshakhana case: Court adjourns hearing on Imran's plea challenging jail sentence till Aug 28</a>

He had to change his plans in March due to Jordan closing its border because of Covid pandemic.

Masood then showed readiness to fly from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in order to meet an individual who he thought would help him reach IS territory by a cargo ship.

When he travelled from Rochester to Minneapolis to catch a flight to Los Amgeles, the FBI arrested him.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

A Pakistani doctor, who was working in the US on an H1-B visa, has been handed an 18-year prison sentence for attempting to provide material support to terror organisation Islamic State and to conduct 'lone wolf' terror attacks in the US.

A Pakistani doctor, who was working in the US on an H1-B visa, has been handed an 18-year prison sentence for attempting to provide material support to terror organisation Islamic State and to conduct 'lone wolf' terror attacks in the US. Muhammad Masood (31) was handed the jail term on Friday (August 25). The imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release, according to a statement from the Department of Justice. Masood pleaded guilty to charges against him in August last year. He was sentenced before Senior Judge Paul A Magnuson. Press Trust of India (PTI) reported that court document showed Masood to be licensed medical doctor in Pakistan. He was formerly employed as a research co-ordinator at a medical clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He had an H-1B visa. Watch | Gravitas: Has the Pakistan Army taken over governance in a soft coup? × Masood received an encrypted messaging application between January and March 2020 in order to facilitate his travel overseas to join a terrorist organisation. He reportedly made several statements about his wish to join the Islamic State. He pledged his allegiance to the terror organisation and its leader. It has been reported that Masood also expressed desire to carry out 'lone wolf' terror attacks in the US. He purchased a plane ticket from Chicago to Amman, Jordan in February 2020 and planned a travel to Syria from there. Also Read | Toshakhana case: Court adjourns hearing on Imran's plea challenging jail sentence till Aug 28 He had to change his plans in March due to Jordan closing its border because of Covid pandemic. Masood then showed readiness to fly from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in order to meet an individual who he thought would help him reach IS territory by a cargo ship. When he travelled from Rochester to Minneapolis to catch a flight to Los Amgeles, the FBI arrested him. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pakistani doctor gets 18-year jail in US for supporting IS

Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State group, has died in clashes in northwestern Syria, announced the group on Thursday.

<h2>Leader has fallen</h2>

In a recorded statement on its channels on the Telegram messaging app, the group said that its leader Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi "was killed after direct clashes" with the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Idlib province.&nbsp;

The spokesperson, as per news agency AFP, also announced Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as al-Qurashi's successor and the Islamic State's new leader.&nbsp; 
 
Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi,&nbsp;will be the group's fifth leader.

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<h2>Previous leadership</h2>

Before, Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the last leader Abu Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as per the group's announcement, died in November of 2022. His predecessor, Abu Ibrahim al-Qurashi was killed in February of the same year, during a US raid in Idlib province. The Islamic State group's first-ever "caliph", Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was also killed in Idlib. He died in October 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-facebook-youtube-pushing-harmful-misogynistic-trends-like-yoni-pearls-to-kenyan-women-622035">Facebook, Google, YouTube pushing harmful 'misogynistic' trends like 'yoni pearls' to Kenyan women</a>

The group saw a meteoric rise in Iraq and Syria in 2014. Back then; it conquered vast swathes of territory. However, the Islamic State soon saw its self-proclaimed "caliphate" collapse under a wave of offensives.

In 2017, it was defeated in Iraq and in 2019; it faced defeat in Syria. However, as per AFP, despite this, the sleeper cells of the group still carry out attacks in both countries. The Sunni Muslim extremist group's austere and terror-ridden rule, as per the France-based news agency, was marked by beheadings and mass shootings.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State group, has died in clashes in northwestern Syria, announced the group on Thursday. Leader has fallen In a recorded statement on its channels on the Telegram messaging app, the group said that its leader Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi "was killed after direct clashes" with the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Idlib province.

Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State group, has died in clashes in northwestern Syria, announced the group on Thursday. Leader has fallen In a recorded statement on its channels on the Telegram messaging app, the group said that its leader Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi "was killed after direct clashes" with the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Idlib province. The spokesperson, as per news agency AFP, also announced Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as al-Qurashi's successor and the Islamic State's new leader. Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, will be the group's fifth leader. Also read | Typhoon Khanun leaves 2 dead, 41 injured in Japan; over 220,000 homes sans power Previous leadership Before, Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the last leader Abu Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as per the group's announcement, died in November of 2022. His predecessor, Abu Ibrahim al-Qurashi was killed in February of the same year, during a US raid in Idlib province. The Islamic State group's first-ever "caliph", Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was also killed in Idlib. He died in October 2019. Also read | Facebook, Google, YouTube pushing harmful 'misogynistic' trends like 'yoni pearls' to Kenyan women The group saw a meteoric rise in Iraq and Syria in 2014. Back then; it conquered vast swathes of territory. However, the Islamic State soon saw its self-proclaimed "caliphate" collapse under a wave of offensives. In 2017, it was defeated in Iraq and in 2019; it faced defeat in Syria. However, as per AFP, despite this, the sleeper cells of the group still carry out attacks in both countries. The Sunni Muslim extremist group's austere and terror-ridden rule, as per the France-based news agency, was marked by beheadings and mass shootings. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Islamic State announces death of its leader 'after direct clashes' in Syria's Idlib, names successor

Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are reportedly actively plotting terror attacks in the United Kingdom. The government will reportedly issue a warning regarding this on Monday.

The update will be part of the government's counter-terrorism strategy known as Contest. According to The Times, the Home Secretary will describe the threat of Islamist terrorism as the "most severe" in the UK, with MI5 spending around the majority or three-quarters of its time addressing this threat.

<h2>The upcoming warning</h2>

Home Secretary Suella Braverman, as per the Telegraph, is expected to highlight the evolving nature of terrorism, noting that it has become increasingly unpredictable and harder to detect and investigate.

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She will reportedly note that while "Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, terrorism is becoming increasingly unpredictable, making cases harder to detect and investigate." 
&nbsp; 
While emphasising that Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, she will reportedly also highlight the growing danger posed by countries such as Russia, which are using terrorism to sow division within the UK.

Braverman is expected to emphasise that extremist activity is becoming more difficult to track, with online platforms playing a significant role in inspiring potential attackers.

<h2>Counter-terrorism in the UK</h2>

Telegraph reports that currently, there are approximately 800 live counter-terrorism policing investigations underway, and last year alone, 169 arrests were made in connection with terror-related offences.

Last month, a report by the Daily Mirror alleged that British Islamic State terrorists were planning a lethal attack on a public gathering. Reportedly, the Iraqi Counter Terror Service disclosed the plot, claiming to have shared the information with Western authorities.

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The Times quoted&nbsp;a Whitehall source and emphasised that the new report is the first of its kind in five years, providing a comprehensive update on the UK's response to terrorism.

"This is the first [report] of its kind for five years and is a comprehensive update for the UK’s response to terrorism. It’s about how the fragmentation of Islamic State and al-Qaeda is now posing a very different threat to our people, while state actors like Russia and Iran will increasingly try to capitalise on terrorism here in the UK."

"We can’t be complacent, the terrorists are morphing and we have to keep our vigilance up."

Currently, the threat level set by MI5 is classified as "substantial," indicating that an attack is considered likely. This level was reduced in February 2022 after being raised to "severe" in November 2021.

Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are reportedly actively plotting terror attacks in the United Kingdom. The government will reportedly issue a warning regarding this on Monday.

Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are reportedly actively plotting terror attacks in the United Kingdom. The government will reportedly issue a warning regarding this on Monday. The update will be part of the government's counter-terrorism strategy known as Contest. According to The Times, the Home Secretary will describe the threat of Islamist terrorism as the "most severe" in the UK, with MI5 spending around the majority or three-quarters of its time addressing this threat. The upcoming warning Home Secretary Suella Braverman, as per the Telegraph, is expected to highlight the evolving nature of terrorism, noting that it has become increasingly unpredictable and harder to detect and investigate. Also read | London to soon get its new 'super sewer' which will end Thames pollution blight She will reportedly note that while "Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, terrorism is becoming increasingly unpredictable, making cases harder to detect and investigate." While emphasising that Islamist terrorism remains the predominant threat, she will reportedly also highlight the growing danger posed by countries such as Russia, which are using terrorism to sow division within the UK. Braverman is expected to emphasise that extremist activity is becoming more difficult to track, with online platforms playing a significant role in inspiring potential attackers. Counter-terrorism in the UK Telegraph reports that currently, there are approximately 800 live counter-terrorism policing investigations underway, and last year alone, 169 arrests were made in connection with terror-related offences. Last month, a report by the Daily Mirror alleged that British Islamic State terrorists were planning a lethal attack on a public gathering. Reportedly, the Iraqi Counter Terror Service disclosed the plot, claiming to have shared the information with Western authorities. Also read | Explained: Long Island serial killings, and the 'predator that ruined families' The Times quoted a Whitehall source and emphasised that the new report is the first of its kind in five years, providing a comprehensive update on the UK's response to terrorism. "This is the first [report] of its kind for five years and is a comprehensive update for the UK’s response to terrorism. It’s about how the fragmentation of Islamic State and al-Qaeda is now posing a very different threat to our people, while state actors like Russia and Iran will increasingly try to capitalise on terrorism here in the UK." "We can’t be complacent, the terrorists are morphing and we have to keep our vigilance up." Currently, the threat level set by MI5 is classified as "substantial," indicating that an attack is considered likely. This level was reduced in February 2022 after being raised to "severe" in November 2021.

Islamic State and Al-Qaeda actively plotting terror attacks in the UK; govt warning expected soon

In an announcement made on Sunday, the US military revealed that it had carried out a targeted strike resulting in the death of Usamah al-Muhajir, a prominent leader of the Islamic State located in eastern Syria, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The strike was conducted on Friday using MQ-9 drones, which had earlier encountered interference from Russian aircraft during an incident that stretched&nbsp;nearly two hours, according to a statement from US Central Command.

“The strike on Friday was conducted by the same MQ-9s that had, earlier in the day, been&nbsp;harassed&nbsp;by Russian aircraft in an encounter that had lasted almost two hours,” the statement from US Central Command said, as reported by the Guardian.

The US Air Force released video footage that purportedly captured the encounter between the drones and Russian fighter jets on Wednesday, demonstrating the need for the MQ-9 Reapers to employ evasive manoeuvres. Expressing concern over the incident, the US Air Forces Central issued a statement condemning the actions of the Russian air forces operating in Syria, characterising them as unprofessional and unsafe.

Lt Gen Alex Grynkewich, commander of the Ninth Air Force in the Middle East, recounted that one of the Russian pilots deliberately positioned his aircraft in front of a drone and engaged the SU-35's afterburner, intentionally impeding the safe operation of the drone by the operator.

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<h2>Washington intensifies raids on suspected islamic state operatives in Syria</h2>

In an escalated effort, Washington has increased its raids and operations targeting suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria. The operations have resulted in the killing and apprehension of leaders who had sought refuge in areas under the control of Turkey-backed rebels following the group's territorial losses in Syria in 2019.

Since the successful campaign that eliminated former IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, known for declaring himself the "caliph of all Muslims," the United States and its allies have been actively pursuing surviving leaders. Many of these individuals are believed to have been involved in planning attacks abroad.

US military commanders emphasise that while the IS has experienced significant degradation and a weakened ability to rebuild its network, it still poses a substantial threat in the region.

Also watch |&nbsp;US sends cluster munitions to Ukraine despite global opposition

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During its peak in 2014, the IS controlled a significant portion of Iraq and Syria. Despite being pushed back in both countries, the group's militants continue to carry out insurgent attacks, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by their presence.

The US military's strike against Usamah al-Muhajir, the ISIS leader, is part of its ongoing efforts to counter the threat posed by the extremist group in the region.&nbsp;

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In an announcement made on Sunday, the US military revealed that it had carried out a targeted strike resulting in the death of Usamah al-Muhajir, a prominent leader of the Islamic State located in eastern Syria, reported Reuters.

In an announcement made on Sunday, the US military revealed that it had carried out a targeted strike resulting in the death of Usamah al-Muhajir, a prominent leader of the Islamic State located in eastern Syria, reported Reuters. The strike was conducted on Friday using MQ-9 drones, which had earlier encountered interference from Russian aircraft during an incident that stretched nearly two hours, according to a statement from US Central Command. “The strike on Friday was conducted by the same MQ-9s that had, earlier in the day, been harassed by Russian aircraft in an encounter that had lasted almost two hours,” the statement from US Central Command said, as reported by the Guardian. The US Air Force released video footage that purportedly captured the encounter between the drones and Russian fighter jets on Wednesday, demonstrating the need for the MQ-9 Reapers to employ evasive manoeuvres. Expressing concern over the incident, the US Air Forces Central issued a statement condemning the actions of the Russian air forces operating in Syria, characterising them as unprofessional and unsafe. Lt Gen Alex Grynkewich, commander of the Ninth Air Force in the Middle East, recounted that one of the Russian pilots deliberately positioned his aircraft in front of a drone and engaged the SU-35's afterburner, intentionally impeding the safe operation of the drone by the operator. Also read | One visit will not solve our challenges overnight: Janet Yellen tells Chinese audience Washington intensifies raids on suspected islamic state operatives in Syria In an escalated effort, Washington has increased its raids and operations targeting suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria. The operations have resulted in the killing and apprehension of leaders who had sought refuge in areas under the control of Turkey-backed rebels following the group's territorial losses in Syria in 2019. Since the successful campaign that eliminated former IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, known for declaring himself the "caliph of all Muslims," the United States and its allies have been actively pursuing surviving leaders. Many of these individuals are believed to have been involved in planning attacks abroad. US military commanders emphasise that while the IS has experienced significant degradation and a weakened ability to rebuild its network, it still poses a substantial threat in the region. Also watch | US sends cluster munitions to Ukraine despite global opposition During its peak in 2014, the IS controlled a significant portion of Iraq and Syria. Despite being pushed back in both countries, the group's militants continue to carry out insurgent attacks, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by their presence. The US military's strike against Usamah al-Muhajir, the ISIS leader, is part of its ongoing efforts to counter the threat posed by the extremist group in the region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Islamic State leader Usamah al-Muhajir killed in Syria: US central command

The US Justice Department said on Wednesday that an army soldier tried to provide information to the Islamic State (IS) to help the terrorist group attack American troops in the Middle East.

The US Justice Department said on Wednesday that an army soldier tried to provide information to the Islamic State (IS) to help the terrorist group attack American troops in the Middle East. Twenty-two-year-old Cole Bridges, aka Cole Gonzales, pleaded guilty before US District Judge Lewis J. Liman. Citing court documents, the Justice Department said in a statement that Bridges joined the US Army in 2019 and was assigned as a cavalry scout in the Third Infantry Division based in Fort Stewart. "Beginning in at least 2019, Bridges began researching and consuming online propaganda promoting jihadists and their violent ideology. Bridges also expressed his support for ISIS and jihad on social media," the statement added. Bridges expressed frustration with military, desire to aid IS In 2020, Bridges started communicating with an FBI online covert employee (OCE), who was posing as an IS supporter in contact with the group's fighters in the Middle East. During these communications, the 22-year-old soldier expressed his frustration with the US military and his desire to aid the IS. "Bridges then provided training and guidance to purported ISIS fighters who were planning attacks, including advice about potential targets in New York City," the Justice Department said, adding, he provided the OCE with portions of a US Army training manual and guidance about military combat tactics, for use by IS. "In or about December 2020, Bridges began to supply the OCE with instructions for the purported ISIS fighters on how to attack US forces in the Middle East. Among other things, Bridges diagrammed specific military manoeuvres intended to help ISIS fighters maximise the lethality of attacks on US troops," the statement added. The soldier further provided advice about the "best way" to fortify an IS encampment to repel an attack by American special forces. Bridges scheduled to be sentenced on November 2 According to the Justice Department, attempting to provide material support to the IS carried a minimum sentence of 20 years in prison, and attempting to murder American military service members carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Bridges is scheduled to be sentenced on November 2. The Justice Department also said the FBI's New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which primarily consists of investigators from the FBI, the New York City Police Department, and more than 50 other federal, state and local agencies were investigating the case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US soldier tried to help Islamic State attack American troops in Middle East: Justice Department

In a major operation involving more than 1,000 federal and state police officers, seven suspects accused of collecting money to send to the Islamic State group in Syria were arrested, informed German prosecutors on Wednesday.

In a major operation involving more than 1,000 federal and state police officers, seven suspects accused of collecting money to send to the Islamic State group in Syria were arrested, informed German prosecutors on Wednesday. The officers were involved in raids across several states to bust the terrorist financing network whose connection lay with the IS. The suspects - four Germans, a German-Moroccan dual national, one Kosovar and a Turkish citizen were arrested from North Rhine Westphalia, Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Bremen region. Notably, the raids also took place in Berlin, Bavaria, Hamburg, Hesse, Thuringia, and Lower Saxony with a lone property in the Netherlands targetted by the officers. Overall, 90 properties were raided as the authorities completed one of the biggest busts in recent times. The prosecutors in Karlsruhe said the seven suspects acted as financial intermediaries and played a "central role" in the fundraising group. Since 2020, using the Telegram messaging service, they had been appealing for contributions. At least $71,552 were transferred using this way and went to support IS members imprisoned in Syria. The money also allowed them to escape from detention in some cases. WATCH | Germany gets tough with climate activists × Stringent German laws on aiding terror outfits According to German intelligence agencies, despite the peak phase of IS ending in 2016, there are extremists and IS cells active in both Iraq and Syria. Since early 2014, German citizens or residents who commit any act in favour of IS are subject to prosecution under the criminal code. The law is stringent and prohibits any kind of social media activity or demonstration in favour of the terrorist group. raising money, material and recruitment of fighters is completely banned. ALSO READ | Explained | How recession in Germany will impact the Indian economy Hezbollah loyalists arrested Earlier this month, federal prosecutors also arrested two Hezbollah members, suspected of recruiting and organising activities for the Iran-backed Shiite movement. Lebanese national Hassan M. and German-Lebanese dual citizen Abdul-Latif W. were arrested in northern Germany. The former joined Hezbollah in 2004 while the latter was a relative rookie, having joined the outfit in 2016. The pair is alleged to have represented Hezbollah in the Bremen region of northern Germany, handling organisation and logistics for the group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany breaks 'Islamic State' finance network after arresting 7 suspected fundraisers

Kerala High Court on Friday refused to put a ban on Sudipto Sen's controversial film The Kerala Story. A division bench of the Kerala High Court rejected a petition against the release of the controversial film. The petition sought a directive to cancel the ‘A’ certification granted to the movie by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).&nbsp;

The Kerala High Court division bench refused to stay the screening of the film The Kerala Story, whose trailer caused much uproar.&nbsp;The film's trailer claimed that tens of thousands of girls from non-Muslim communities have disappeared from Kerala and joined terror groups such as Islamic State. 
 
After watching the trailer of the movie, a division bench of Justices N Nagaresh and Sophy Thomas said that it does not contain anything against Islam or Muslims as a whole but was about ISIS. 
 
“What is against Islam? There is no allegation against the religion. The allegation is against ISIS,” the bench remarked. 
 
“Going through the trailers of the movie, we find it does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. None of the petitioners have watched movie,” the Court noted in its order, said a Bar and Bench report.

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The bench remarked that&nbsp;Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists in&nbsp;umpteen movies but it has not led to any adverse consequences. 
 
"There are umpteen number of movies where Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists. Nothing happens, no one protests. Many such Hindi and Malayalam films are there," said Justice Nagaresh. 
 
After hearing all parties at length, the court&nbsp;refused to the stay the release of the film and further noted that the CBFC has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition. 
 
"As provided by guidelines, the board has considered and examined the movie. From the statement of the Deputy Solicitor General, the producers have published a disclaimer that the film is fictionalised and dramatised. We are not inclined to pass an interim order restraining exhibition of film," the court said. 
 
Rubbishing the claims made in the movie that about 32,000 women were converted and sent for terror missions, the petitioners termed it fictitious that has no connection with reality.&nbsp;The producer of "The Kerala Story" told Kerala High Court that the teaser of the movie, which claimed that over 32,000 women from Kerala were recruited to ISIS, will be removed from their social media accounts. High Court has recorded the statement, reported Live Law.&nbsp;

Those who are now opposing the movie call it incredulous. However, the makers of the film are refusing to back down. The bench consisted of N Nagaresh and Mohammed Nias C P.&nbsp;

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This comes as Indian Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a plea which sought to change the disclaimer of the movie from 'true story' to 'fiction'.&nbsp;

Earlier, Indian Supreme Court urged the petitioners to approach Kerala High Court for the matter.&nbsp;The petitioners also claimed that the statements used for the movie teaser will destroy the secular fabric of the state.

Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries

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Clearing the air amid the controversy that has gained much traction not only in the Indian southern state but in all parts of the country, the film certification body in its counter affidavit filed in the high court, said the film does not claim accuracy of facts pertaining to historical events.

It added that the film is not offensive towards any person, dead or living, or against any organisation, any faith or any community.&nbsp;All events have been further verified and corroborated by historians, experts and various news reports, as per the film certification body.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Madras High Court also rejected a plea which sought ban on release of "The Kerala Story". 
 
"Why are you coming so late? If you'd come earlier, we could've asked someone to watch the movie and decide. You have not seen the movie yet. How can you assume that there will be problems? Moreover, the Kerala High Court is already seized of the matter..We're dismissing this case, sir. The Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court have already dealt with the issue," Justice Chandira said.

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Kerala High Court on Friday refused to put a ban on Sudipto Sen's controversial film The Kerala Story. A division bench of the Kerala High Court rejected a petition against the release of the controversial film.

Kerala High Court on Friday refused to put a ban on Sudipto Sen's controversial film The Kerala Story. A division bench of the Kerala High Court rejected a petition against the release of the controversial film. The petition sought a directive to cancel the ‘A’ certification granted to the movie by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The Kerala High Court division bench refused to stay the screening of the film The Kerala Story, whose trailer caused much uproar. The film's trailer claimed that tens of thousands of girls from non-Muslim communities have disappeared from Kerala and joined terror groups such as Islamic State. After watching the trailer of the movie, a division bench of Justices N Nagaresh and Sophy Thomas said that it does not contain anything against Islam or Muslims as a whole but was about ISIS. “What is against Islam? There is no allegation against the religion. The allegation is against ISIS,” the bench remarked. “Going through the trailers of the movie, we find it does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. None of the petitioners have watched movie,” the Court noted in its order, said a Bar and Bench report. Also Read | BAPS Swaminarayan temple vandalised in Sydney by Khalistan supporters: Reports The bench remarked that Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists in umpteen movies but it has not led to any adverse consequences. "There are umpteen number of movies where Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists. Nothing happens, no one protests. Many such Hindi and Malayalam films are there," said Justice Nagaresh. After hearing all parties at length, the court refused to the stay the release of the film and further noted that the CBFC has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition. "As provided by guidelines, the board has considered and examined the movie. From the statement of the Deputy Solicitor General, the producers have published a disclaimer that the film is fictionalised and dramatised. We are not inclined to pass an interim order restraining exhibition of film," the court said. Rubbishing the claims made in the movie that about 32,000 women were converted and sent for terror missions, the petitioners termed it fictitious that has no connection with reality. The producer of "The Kerala Story" told Kerala High Court that the teaser of the movie, which claimed that over 32,000 women from Kerala were recruited to ISIS, will be removed from their social media accounts. High Court has recorded the statement, reported Live Law. Those who are now opposing the movie call it incredulous. However, the makers of the film are refusing to back down. The bench consisted of N Nagaresh and Mohammed Nias C P. Also Read | US regional bank Western Alliance quashes report of exploring potential sale This comes as Indian Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a plea which sought to change the disclaimer of the movie from 'true story' to 'fiction'. Earlier, Indian Supreme Court urged the petitioners to approach Kerala High Court for the matter. The petitioners also claimed that the statements used for the movie teaser will destroy the secular fabric of the state. Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries × Clearing the air amid the controversy that has gained much traction not only in the Indian southern state but in all parts of the country, the film certification body in its counter affidavit filed in the high court, said the film does not claim accuracy of facts pertaining to historical events. It added that the film is not offensive towards any person, dead or living, or against any organisation, any faith or any community. All events have been further verified and corroborated by historians, experts and various news reports, as per the film certification body. Earlier, the Madras High Court also rejected a plea which sought ban on release of "The Kerala Story". "Why are you coming so late? If you'd come earlier, we could've asked someone to watch the movie and decide. You have not seen the movie yet. How can you assume that there will be problems? Moreover, the Kerala High Court is already seized of the matter..We're dismissing this case, sir. The Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court have already dealt with the issue," Justice Chandira said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kerala HC refuses to stay release of ‘The Kerala Story’, says allegation against ISIS not religion

Thousands of Yazidis were kidnapped when the Islamic State took over Northern Iraq a decade ago. While, a significant number of them have returned many still remain missing. Watch the video to know more.

Islamic States' atrocities against Yazidis: Families await kidnapped relatives

Thousands of Yazidis were kidnapped when the Islamic State took over Northern Iraq a decade ago. While a significant number of them have returned, many still remain missing. Ghadi Francis brings you the full report on The West Asia Post only on WION.

Iraq's Yazidis recount horrors | The West Asia Post

At least 20 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an attack&nbsp;on Friday (April 7), said local authorities. The next day, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on a village in eastern Congo, in a statement on its Telegram channel. This also comes days after another attack by the same group in neighbouring Ituri province, in which 30 people were killed, as per the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo.&nbsp;

The attack on Musandaba

The attack, on Friday, took place in a village named Musandaba which is on the outskirts of the city of Beni, in the eastern part of the country. “We counted about 20 dead on Friday in the village of Musandaba,” said regional military administrator Colonel Charles Omeonga, as per media reports. He also attributed the attack to the “ADF terrorists,” reported AFP. &nbsp;

However, local civil society leader Patrick Mukohe told AFP that he counted at least 21 bodies of men and women at the site of the massacre which was some 30 kilometres west of the town of Oicha. He blamed the attack on the “enemy” ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) who “ambushed farmers at around 4:00 pm (local time)...near the village of Enebula”.&nbsp;

Notably, the province in question is one of two conflict-hit regions which was placed under military administration over a year ago to combat growing violence.&nbsp;

Additionally, the military spokesperson in the North Kivu region, Anthony Mwalushay said the attackers used machetes “to avoid confrontation with the army,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Previous attacks by the ADF and Islamic State

The ADF group, which is said to be affiliated with the Islamic State and has insurgents from Uganda, has&nbsp;gained a foothold in eastern DR Congo since the 1990s. The group has been accused of killing thousands in the country. However, since 2019, many attacks by the ADF have been claimed by the Islamic State.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the United Nations mission in Congo (MONUSCO) condemned the attack which had been carried out by the ADF and killed more than 30 people. Last month, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for any information about the group’s leader Seka Musa Baluku, reported AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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At least 20 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an attack on Friday (April 7), said local authorities. The next day, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on a village in eastern Congo, in a statement on its Telegram channel.

At least 20 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an attack on Friday (April 7), said local authorities. The next day, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on a village in eastern Congo, in a statement on its Telegram channel. This also comes days after another attack by the same group in neighbouring Ituri province, in which 30 people were killed, as per the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo. The attack on Musandaba The attack, on Friday, took place in a village named Musandaba which is on the outskirts of the city of Beni, in the eastern part of the country. “We counted about 20 dead on Friday in the village of Musandaba,” said regional military administrator Colonel Charles Omeonga, as per media reports. He also attributed the attack to the “ADF terrorists,” reported AFP. However, local civil society leader Patrick Mukohe told AFP that he counted at least 21 bodies of men and women at the site of the massacre which was some 30 kilometres west of the town of Oicha. He blamed the attack on the “enemy” ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) who “ambushed farmers at around 4:00 pm (local time)...near the village of Enebula”. Notably, the province in question is one of two conflict-hit regions which was placed under military administration over a year ago to combat growing violence. Additionally, the military spokesperson in the North Kivu region, Anthony Mwalushay said the attackers used machetes “to avoid confrontation with the army,” reported Reuters. Previous attacks by the ADF and Islamic State The ADF group, which is said to be affiliated with the Islamic State and has insurgents from Uganda, has gained a foothold in eastern DR Congo since the 1990s. The group has been accused of killing thousands in the country. However, since 2019, many attacks by the ADF have been claimed by the Islamic State. On Thursday, the United Nations mission in Congo (MONUSCO) condemned the attack which had been carried out by the ADF and killed more than 30 people. Last month, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for any information about the group’s leader Seka Musa Baluku, reported AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 20 killed in eastern Congo attack; Islamic State claims responsibility

The Islamic State group (IS) claimed responsibility for a bomb attack that killed a security guard and wounded a group of journalists and children in Mazar-e-Sharif, a city in northern Afghanistan. Saturday's bombing occurred at an event honouring Afghanistan's journalists, and came two days after a suicide bomber killed the Taliban governor of Balkh province in an attack also claimed by IS.

IS said in a statement on its Amaq news agency that the attack against journalists was carried out with a "parcel bomb that IS fighters managed to place and detonate." The event was being held at a cultural centre in the city when the attack took place.

"The blast targeted a rally held inside a Shiite centre to reward several journalists working in agencies involved in the war and instigation against IS," the statement said.

A security guard was killed, while five journalists and three children were wounded in the bomb attack, police said.

The governor of Balkh, Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, was killed Thursday by a suicide bomber at his office in Mazar-i-Sharif. 
That attack was also claimed by IS.

The killing of Muzammil, known for fighting IS jihadists, marked one of the highest-level attacks since the Taliban stormed back to power in 2021.&nbsp;

Violence across Afghanistan has dramatically dropped since the Taliban seized control, but the security situation has again deteriorated with IS claiming several deadly attacks.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Islamic State group (IS) claimed responsibility for a bomb attack that killed a security guard and wounded a group of journalists and children in Mazar-e-Sharif, a city in northern Afghanistan.

The Islamic State group (IS) claimed responsibility for a bomb attack that killed a security guard and wounded a group of journalists and children in Mazar-e-Sharif, a city in northern Afghanistan. Saturday's bombing occurred at an event honouring Afghanistan's journalists, and came two days after a suicide bomber killed the Taliban governor of Balkh province in an attack also claimed by IS. IS said in a statement on its Amaq news agency that the attack against journalists was carried out with a "parcel bomb that IS fighters managed to place and detonate." The event was being held at a cultural centre in the city when the attack took place. "The blast targeted a rally held inside a Shiite centre to reward several journalists working in agencies involved in the war and instigation against IS," the statement said. A security guard was killed, while five journalists and three children were wounded in the bomb attack, police said. The governor of Balkh, Mohammad Dawood Muzammil, was killed Thursday by a suicide bomber at his office in Mazar-i-Sharif. That attack was also claimed by IS. The killing of Muzammil, known for fighting IS jihadists, marked one of the highest-level attacks since the Taliban stormed back to power in 2021. Violence across Afghanistan has dramatically dropped since the Taliban seized control, but the security situation has again deteriorated with IS claiming several deadly attacks. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

IS claims responsibility for bomb attack on Afghan journalists

A high school student has stabbed a teacher to death in a school in the French town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. French government spokesman Olivier Véran confirmed Wednesday's attack and said the perpetrator was 16 years old.

French high-school student stabs teacher to death

Fifty-three people were killed on Friday (February 17) in central Syria in an ambush blamed on the Islamic State. According to state television, the victims were truffle hunting when they were killed "during an attack by the terrorists of IS to the southwest of the town of Al-Sokhna." The director of the Palmyra hospital Walid Audi said the victims included 46 civilians and seven soldiers. The dastardly attack comes at a time when Syria is grappling with the devastation of the massive earthquakes.&nbsp;

Speaking to radio station Sham FM, Audi said the bodies had "been brought to the hospital after the ambush" that targeted dozens. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the attack was carried out by IS terrorists on motorcycles who opened fire on truffle hunters, news agency AFP reported early Saturday. The IS did not immediately claim responsibility for the ambush.&nbsp;

This was the deadliest attack by the group&nbsp;since January 2022 when they stormed a prison in the Kurdish-controlled northeastern city of Hasakeh in a bid to free fellow members. The resulting fighting inside the city had killed 105 people, mostly civilians, as well as 268 terrorists.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-isis-leader-killed-four-us-troops-dog-wounded-after-helicopter-raid-in-syria-563245">Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military</a>

Meanwhile, on Friday, American troops killed a senior IS leader in Syria. The leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed with the US Central Command saying that four military personnel were injured during the raid. The injured were being treated at an American medical facility in Iraq.&nbsp;

After losing their territory following a military onslaught backed by a US-led coalition in March 2019, the Islamic State remnants in Syria mostly retreated to hideouts in the desert. Since then, the group has used such hideouts to ambush Kurdish-led forces and Syrian government troops while continuing to mount attacks in neighbouring Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fifty-three people were killed on Friday (February 17) in central Syria in an ambush blamed on the Islamic State. According to state television, the victims were truffle hunting when they were killed "during an attack by the terrorists of IS to the southwest of the town of Al-Sokhna.

Fifty-three people were killed on Friday (February 17) in central Syria in an ambush blamed on the Islamic State. According to state television, the victims were truffle hunting when they were killed "during an attack by the terrorists of IS to the southwest of the town of Al-Sokhna." The director of the Palmyra hospital Walid Audi said the victims included 46 civilians and seven soldiers. The dastardly attack comes at a time when Syria is grappling with the devastation of the massive earthquakes. Speaking to radio station Sham FM, Audi said the bodies had "been brought to the hospital after the ambush" that targeted dozens. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the attack was carried out by IS terrorists on motorcycles who opened fire on truffle hunters, news agency AFP reported early Saturday. The IS did not immediately claim responsibility for the ambush. This was the deadliest attack by the group since January 2022 when they stormed a prison in the Kurdish-controlled northeastern city of Hasakeh in a bid to free fellow members. The resulting fighting inside the city had killed 105 people, mostly civilians, as well as 268 terrorists. ALSO READ | Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military Meanwhile, on Friday, American troops killed a senior IS leader in Syria. The leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed with the US Central Command saying that four military personnel were injured during the raid. The injured were being treated at an American medical facility in Iraq. After losing their territory following a military onslaught backed by a US-led coalition in March 2019, the Islamic State remnants in Syria mostly retreated to hideouts in the desert. Since then, the group has used such hideouts to ambush Kurdish-led forces and Syrian government troops while continuing to mount attacks in neighbouring Iraq. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Syria: 53 killed in ambush blamed on Islamic State terrorists, say reports

A new United Nations report has stated that the Islamic State terror threat is still high and increasing in conflict zones, despite leadership losses and diminished cash reserves, the extremist group continues to pose a threat to international peace and security.

'Islamic State terror threat remains high, threat increasing in conflict zones,' says UN

An attack blamed on the Islamic State (IS) group killed at least 11 people in central Syria, said a war monitor on Sunday (Febraury 12).&nbsp;Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the IS "attacked about 75 people on Saturday while they were collecting truffles in the Palmyra area, in the eastern countryside of Homs."

The attack killed "10 civilians, including a woman, and a member of the (Syrian) regime forces," it said, adding that others still remain missing.&nbsp;

The attack was reported by Syrian state news agency SANA as well but with a lower death toll. The report said that IS "terrorists" fired machine guns and killed four civilians, including a woman.

Ten others were wounded in the attack, some "critically", the news agency added.&nbsp;

Watch | Syria's Trade Minister speaks to WION on Turkey-Syria earthquakes

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After the jihadists lost their last scraps&nbsp;of territory following a military onslaught backed by a US-led coalition in March 2019, IS remnants in Syria mostly retreated into desert hideouts in the country's east.

They have since used such hideouts to ambush Kurdish-led forces and Syrian government troops while continuing to mount attacks in Iraq.

Many people, including women and children, have been targeted &nbsp;in recent years while truffle hunting in central, northeastern and eastern areas of Syria.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An attack blamed on the Islamic State (IS) group killed at least 11 people in central Syria, said a war monitor on Sunday (Febraury 12). Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the IS "attacked about 75 people on Saturday while they were collecting truffles in the Palmyra area, in the eastern countryside of Homs.

An attack blamed on the Islamic State (IS) group killed at least 11 people in central Syria, said a war monitor on Sunday (Febraury 12). Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the IS "attacked about 75 people on Saturday while they were collecting truffles in the Palmyra area, in the eastern countryside of Homs." The attack killed "10 civilians, including a woman, and a member of the (Syrian) regime forces," it said, adding that others still remain missing. The attack was reported by Syrian state news agency SANA as well but with a lower death toll. The report said that IS "terrorists" fired machine guns and killed four civilians, including a woman. Ten others were wounded in the attack, some "critically", the news agency added. Watch | Syria's Trade Minister speaks to WION on Turkey-Syria earthquakes × After the jihadists lost their last scraps of territory following a military onslaught backed by a US-led coalition in March 2019, IS remnants in Syria mostly retreated into desert hideouts in the country's east. They have since used such hideouts to ambush Kurdish-led forces and Syrian government troops while continuing to mount attacks in Iraq. Many people, including women and children, have been targeted in recent years while truffle hunting in central, northeastern and eastern areas of Syria. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Islamic State attack claims 11 lives in Syria, mostly civilians: War monitor

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Thursday that eight militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed and seven others were arrested following raids on hideouts of the group. These raids were carried out on Wednesday.&nbsp;Taking to Twitter, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said the Islamic State had a main role in the attack on a Chinese hotel in Kabul and paved way for foreign Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISKP) members to come to Afghanistan, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/attack-in-eastern-syria-kills-at-least-10-oil-field-workers-548047">Terror attack in eastern Syria kills at least 10 oil field workers, Islamic State blamed</a>

"Lots of weapons and explosives have fallen into the hands of the security forces," Zabiullah said.&nbsp;

The attack on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-states-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-hotel-attack-542558">Longan Hotel in Kabul on December 12 last year</a> killed at least three people and injured five Chinese citizens

The Islamic State, while claiming responsibility for the attack, said in a statement two of its members attacked the hotel- frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags. The group claimed that 30 people were killed or wounded.&nbsp;

Condemning the attack, the Chinese foreign ministry said "This terror attack is abominable and China is deeply shocked."

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for several high-profile attacks in Kabul. On Monday, the group said it was behind an attack on Taliban forces that killed 20 people and wounded 30 others.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

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The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Thursday that eight militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed and seven others were arrested following raids on hideouts of the group.

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Thursday that eight militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed and seven others were arrested following raids on hideouts of the group. These raids were carried out on Wednesday. Taking to Twitter, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said the Islamic State had a main role in the attack on a Chinese hotel in Kabul and paved way for foreign Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISKP) members to come to Afghanistan, news agency Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Terror attack in eastern Syria kills at least 10 oil field workers, Islamic State blamed "Lots of weapons and explosives have fallen into the hands of the security forces," Zabiullah said. The attack on the Longan Hotel in Kabul on December 12 last year killed at least three people and injured five Chinese citizens The Islamic State, while claiming responsibility for the attack, said in a statement two of its members attacked the hotel- frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags. The group claimed that 30 people were killed or wounded. Condemning the attack, the Chinese foreign ministry said "This terror attack is abominable and China is deeply shocked." The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for several high-profile attacks in Kabul. On Monday, the group said it was behind an attack on Taliban forces that killed 20 people and wounded 30 others. (With agency inputs) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban kill eight IS militants, arrest 7 in raids targeting Kabul hotel attack accused

Authorities in Libya said on Sunday (January 1) that they found a mass grave with 18 bodies in the Sabaa area of Sirte city- which is a former stronghold of the Islamic State (IS). Issuing a statement, the Missing Persons Authority said the bodies were unearthed and sent to a local hospital, the Associated Press reported.&nbsp;

The authority said it has collected samples of the dead bones to identify the bodies. Details regarding the cause of death of these 18 people were not given, the report said.

In October last year, officials said they found 42 bodies in a mass grave at a school site in Sirte. And in December 2018, bodies of over 30 men were discovered near the city, believed to be the corpses of an Ethiopian Christian group that IS terrorists executed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eastern-libyan-commander-announces-final-opportunity-to-draw-a-road-map-for-elections-546383">Eastern Libyan commander announces 'final opportunity' to draw a road map for elections</a>

Sirte was the birthplace of Libya's former dictator Muammar Gaddafi. The city was under the control of the Islamic State from 2015 to 2016. The IS terrorists were driven out of the city in December 2016 by Libya's forces supported by the United States and allied with the United Nations back government in Tripoli.&nbsp;

Since Gaddafi's overthrow and killing, the country of Libya has been split between rival authorities. Sirte is currently controlled by forces that are loyal to military leader Khalifa Hifter.&nbsp;

At present, hundreds of alleged former IS terrorists are in prisons across Libya, with many awaiting trial.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in Libya said on Sunday (January 1) that they found a mass grave with 18 bodies in the Sabaa area of Sirte city- which is a former stronghold of the Islamic State (IS).

Authorities in Libya said on Sunday (January 1) that they found a mass grave with 18 bodies in the Sabaa area of Sirte city- which is a former stronghold of the Islamic State (IS). Issuing a statement, the Missing Persons Authority said the bodies were unearthed and sent to a local hospital, the Associated Press reported. The authority said it has collected samples of the dead bones to identify the bodies. Details regarding the cause of death of these 18 people were not given, the report said. In October last year, officials said they found 42 bodies in a mass grave at a school site in Sirte. And in December 2018, bodies of over 30 men were discovered near the city, believed to be the corpses of an Ethiopian Christian group that IS terrorists executed. ALSO READ | Eastern Libyan commander announces 'final opportunity' to draw a road map for elections Sirte was the birthplace of Libya's former dictator Muammar Gaddafi. The city was under the control of the Islamic State from 2015 to 2016. The IS terrorists were driven out of the city in December 2016 by Libya's forces supported by the United States and allied with the United Nations back government in Tripoli. Since Gaddafi's overthrow and killing, the country of Libya has been split between rival authorities. Sirte is currently controlled by forces that are loyal to military leader Khalifa Hifter. At present, hundreds of alleged former IS terrorists are in prisons across Libya, with many awaiting trial. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Libya: 18 bodies exhumed from mass grave in former Islamic State stronghold

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