
World in 10
Islamic State's big opportunity
Dec 11, 2024
Catherine Philp, World Affairs editor at The Times and an expert in global security, discusses the precarious situation in Syria and the potential resurgence of the Islamic State. She highlights how ongoing instability may allow IS to reclaim influence amid the dominance of HTS. The podcast dives into the brutal tactics of IS, including recent executions, and contrasts their violence with other groups. Additionally, Philp warns about the repercussions of Western policies that leave IS fighters unaddressed, further complicating security in the region.
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Quick takeaways
- The power vacuum in Syria created by the Assad regime's decline presents a critical opportunity for the Islamic State to reassert its influence.
- Western nations' inaction on repatriating IS fighters compounds regional instability, fostering an environment ripe for extremist recruitment and resurgence.
Deep dives
The Persistence of Islamic State in Syria
Islamic State (IS) remains active in Syria despite a quieter presence in recent years. Reports indicate that remnants of the group are attempting to remind the populace of their influence, notably by raising their black flag in Christian neighborhoods such as Homs. Additionally, IS members are detained in various camps within Kurdish-controlled areas of Syria, with significant international pressure on countries to repatriate their nationals. The situation highlights the risks associated with these camps, as the possible withdrawal of Kurdish forces could lead to unpredictable outcomes regarding who might regain control of these prisoners.
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