THREAD: islamic state

IRAN’S Year Of Struggles: Major Setbacks and Shocking Events

23 December 2024 — Iran faced numerous challenges this past year. The fall of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad marked a major setback, weakening Iran’s influence in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Its currency plummeted globally, and Israel severely damaged its proxy forces.

In April, tensions soared when Israel bombed the Iranian embassy in Syria. Iran retaliated with over 300 drones and missiles targeting Israel. However, a coalition of Israel, the U.S., Jordan, and Saudi Arabia intercepted nearly all threats successfully.

The death of former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash added to Iran’s troubles. Raisi was seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini. Iranian officials blamed dense fog for the crash but it raised questions about internal stability.

Israel further showcased its reach by assassinating Hamas commander Ismail Haniyeh during his visit to Tehran for Iran’s presidential inauguration. This bold move highlighted ongoing regional tensions and underscored Iran’s vulnerabilities amid leadership changes and external pressures.

SYRIA’S NEW Rulers: Is a Taliban-Like Takeover Imminent?

21 December 2024 — Bashar al-Assad was ousted from Damascus two weeks ago, ending his family’s five-decade rule. The insurgent coalition that toppled him was led by Hayat Tahir al-Sham (HTS), an offshoot of al-Qaeda. HTS leader Muhammad al-Jolani, with a $10 million FBI bounty, is attempting to rebrand as Ahmed al-Sharaa to distance from his terrorist past.

Western governments hope HTS will lead a more inclusive Syria and avoid an Afghanistan-like scenario post-U.S. withdrawal in 2021. However, HTS leaders’ admiration for the Taliban raises concerns about their intentions. The Taliban congratulated HTS on Assad’s overthrow, further complicating the West’s cautious optimism.

Despite designating HTS as a terrorist organization, European governments and the UN have reached out to them to prevent another Afghanistan situation. U.S. diplomats have also engaged with Syria’s new rulers for the first time since 2011, aiming to support Syrian civil society and envision a peaceful future for the country.

Outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken explicitly warned HTS against following the Taliban’s path on Thursday. The Biden administration is wary of repeating past mistakes and seeks assurances that Syria won’t become another stronghold for extremist rule under its new leadership.

GERMAN Brothers’ SHOCKING Arrest for Islamic State Allegiance

10 December 2024 — German authorities have arrested two German-Lebanese brothers, aged 15 and 20, from Mannheim. A 22-year-old German-Turkish man from Hesse was also detained. The arrests happened on Sunday, as stated by prosecutors and police.

The brothers are accused of planning an attack fueled by their religious beliefs and support for the Islamic State group. They allegedly obtained an assault rifle and ammunition for this plan. The weapon was found at the home of the 22-year-old suspect.

Investigators discovered more items like a balaclava, a protective vest, several knives, and cellphones during their search. A judge has ordered that the suspects stay in custody while awaiting possible charges.

Prosecutors stressed there was no “concrete danger to the public” during the investigation. Authorities did not reveal any specific plans or targets related to a potential attack.

US STRIKES on ISIS in Syria: A Powerful Blow to Terrorism

30 October 2024 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a series of successful strikes on ISIS locations in Syria, eliminating up to 35 terrorists. The operation targeted multiple camps and took out several senior ISIS leaders, with no civilian casualties reported.

CENTCOM stated that these airstrikes will disrupt ISIS’s ability to plan and execute attacks against civilians, the U.S., allies, and partners in the region. The command emphasized its commitment to degrading ISIS’s operational capabilities alongside regional allies to ensure the group’s defeat.

This announcement follows an incident in Iraq where two U.S. service members were injured during an operation that killed at least seven ISIS operatives. Both service members are reportedly in stable condition as CENTCOM continues its efforts against terrorism in the Middle East.

ISRAEL STRIKES Back: Possible Death of Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar

17 October 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet are investigating if Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed in Gaza. A joint statement confirmed the elimination of three terrorists during IDF operations. Authorities are checking if one of them was Sinwar.

Sinwar, known as the Butcher of Khan Younis, is infamous for his brutal tactics against both Israelis and Palestinians. He is believed to have orchestrated the October 7 massacre of Israeli civilians by Hamas militants. His potential death could mark a significant blow to Hamas leadership.

An Israel Army Radio report indicated that Sinwar might have been killed in a clash with Israeli soldiers. The soldiers fired at suspected terrorists who fled into a building, which was then destroyed by a tank shell. No hostages were found in the area, and operations continue with caution.

TALIBAN RULE Destroys Afghanistan: Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

16 August 2024 — Life in Afghanistan has worsened under Taliban rule over the past three years. The humanitarian crisis is escalating, and women’s rights have vanished. Kabul remains isolated from the international community.

A quarter of Afghans face “acute” food insecurity, and more than half need humanitarian aid. Nearly 70% of the population lacks reliable access to basic resources like food, water, housing, or health care, according to the UNDP.

The Taliban’s takeover in August 2021 led to an economic collapse as international funding was cut off. Their extremist policies and bans on women have worsened the economic crisis further.

Three years after U.S.-led troops withdrew from Afghanistan, many question if life is now worse than before 9/11 and the subsequent invasion. “If it’s not worse, it’s heading in that direction quickly,” says Michael Rubin of the American Enterprise Institute.

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKE Devastates Gaza: 22 Killed in Humanitarian Zone

26 May 2024 — An Israeli airstrike on Sunday killed 22 people in Rafah, Gaza Strip. The attack hit tents for displaced people, causing heavy destruction. The Israeli army claimed it was unaware of any activity in the area.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society warned the death toll could rise as search and rescue efforts continued. They stated that Israel had designated the location as a “humanitarian area.” Footage from the scene showed significant damage and chaos.

This strike occurred two days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to end its military offensive in Rafah. Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, was briefed on operations in Rafah on Sunday.

Earlier that day, Hamas fired rockets from Gaza reaching Tel Aviv for the first time in months. There were no immediate reports of casualties from this rocket attack, which Hamas’ military wing claimed responsibility for.

ISLAMIC STATE Plot to Kill Jews in England Foiled

14 May 2024 — Two men accused of plotting to gun down Jews in an Islamic State-inspired attack were held without bail Tuesday after appearing in a London court. Walid Saadaoui, 36, and Amar Hussein, 50, planned to use automatic weapons to kill Jews, police, and military personnel. The charges cover activities from Dec. 13 until last Thursday.

The arrests come amid a surge in antisemitic incidents in the U.K., which hit record highs last year. This spike followed Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel and Israel’s subsequent military actions in Gaza. Community Security Trust reported these troubling trends as part of their advocacy against antisemitism.

Amanda Bomsztyk, northern regional director of the trust, emphasized the need for extensive security measures for the Jewish community due to such threats. “This is one of a number of recent and ongoing cases that demonstrate why the Jewish community needs such extensive security measures,” she said.

A third man, Bilel Saadaoui, 35, was also charged with making arrangements for his brother Walid Saadaoui’s expected death during the plot’s execution. The case underscores ongoing security concerns for Jewish communities worldwide amid rising extremist threats.

ISRAEL DEFIES US Warnings, Ramps Up Military Strike in Gaza’s Rafah

12 May 2024 — Israel has escalated its military actions in Rafah, Gaza, despite U.S. cautions. The Israeli military ordered tens of thousands to leave the area immediately. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed that the operations targeted and eliminated numerous militants. This aggressive stance persists even amid international concerns about rising civilian casualties and disruptions to humanitarian aid efforts.

Global protests have ignited as Israel alleges Hamas militants are consolidating in northern Gaza following seven months of ongoing conflict. The United Nations warns that intensifying military activities in Rafah might severely impact humanitarian initiatives and increase civilian fatalities. The closure of the Rafah border crossing complicates aid delivery, heightening regional tensions further.

President Joe Biden has explicitly denied supplying offensive weaponry for operations in Rafah, pointing to credible evidence that Israel might be violating international laws designed to protect civilians during conflict situations. On the other hand, Israeli authorities maintain they adhere strictly to these laws and have implemented advanced warning systems to reduce civilian casualties before launching operations

The crisis deepens as over 1.4 million Palestinians find themselves displaced within Rafah’s confines due to recent evacuations moving populations into areas already heavily affected by conflict. Aid organizations are overwhelmed trying to manage under these challenging circumstances.

DAWKINS Picks CHRISTIANITY Over Islam: A Shocking Twist From the Renowned Atheist

01 April 2024 — Richard Dawkins, a celebrated author and emeritus fellow of New College, Oxford, recently shared his surprising preference for Christian society over Islamic nations. In a conversation with LBC Radio’s Rachel Johnson, he revealed that despite being an atheist, he identifies as a “cultural Christian” and feels more comfortable in the Christian ethos.

Dawkins expressed his disapproval of Ramadan lights replacing Easter ones in London. He firmly believes that the UK is culturally rooted in Christianity and showed strong opposition towards the idea of substitifying it with any other religion.

While recognizing Christianity’s decline in the UK — a trend he supports — Dawkins emphasized his concern over losing cathedrals and other cultural elements tied to living in a Christian country. “If I had to pick between Christianity and Islam,” Dawkins stated emphatically, “I’d choose Christianity every single time.”

Biden WARNED: Israeli Defense Leaders URGE Against Recognizing Palestinian State

23 February 2024 — A group of Israeli defense and security leaders have issued a stern warning to President Biden. Their message is clear — do not recognize a Palestinian state. They believe this move could endanger Israel’s existence and indirectly support regimes known for sponsoring terrorism, such as Iran and Russia.

The Israel Defense and Security Forum (IDSF) sent this urgent letter on February 19th. They caution that recognizing Palestine would be interpreted as rewarding violent actions by Hamas, global terrorist organizations, Iran, and other rogue states.

Brigadier General Amir Avivi, founder of the IDSF, spoke to Fox News Digital about the situation. He stressed that it’s crucial for the U.S., at this juncture, to stand by its key ally in the Middle East and uphold American interests in the region.

In a rare display of consensus on Wednesday, Israel’s Knesset (parliament) unanimously dismissed foreign pressures to single-handedly recognize a Palestinian state.

HOME OFFICE’S ‘World Hijab DAY’ Celebration Sparks Controversy Amid Asylum Tensions

11 February 2024 — A recent email from the Home Office’s Islamic Network (HOIN) to civil servants has ignited a debate. The message commended the Islamic Hijab, portraying it as a protective measure for women rather than an imposition by men. It also maintained that numerous Muslim women voluntarily don the hijab to fortify their faith.

While acknowledging that not all encounters with the hijab have been positive, the email underscored it as a personal choice and a facet of spiritual development. It encouraged staff to organize workshops or training sessions about the hijab, aiming to cultivate an open and respectful workplace environment.

This initiative coincides with a period when forced adherence to religious dress codes is classified by the Home Office as persecution — a valid reason for seeking asylum in the UK. An insider revealed that civil servants were urged to celebrate “World Hijab Day”, expressing apprehension about potential adverse impacts on asylum cases they manage.

The insider also expressed unease over insufficient internal communication concerning recent events such as a suspected acid attack by an asylum seeker.

US Troops UNDER ATTACK: Iran-Backed Militias Blamed for Deadly Drone Strike

31 January 2024 — A devastating drone attack in Jordan, which tragically claimed the lives of three U.S. service members, has been attributed to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an organization supported by Iran. The assault also resulted in injuries for at least 40 troops stationed at Tower 22, a covert base vital to American operations in Syria. This alarming incident unfolds as President Joe Biden weighs his retaliatory options.

In a stern warning, Iran vowed to “respond decisively” if the U.S. takes action against Tehran for the attack. John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, confirmed that this premeditated strike was orchestrated by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and included involvement from militant group Kataib Hezbollah.

Kirby dismissed an announcement from Kataib Hezbollah about halting military operations against occupation forces as untrustworthy. He stressed that they are not alone in launching attacks on U.S forces. Amid this escalating situation, President Biden is set to attend a solemn ceremony honoring fallen troops at Dover Air Force Base this Friday.

Additional American strikes could potentially intensify tensions within an already unstable region struggling with Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza since

TIME to STOP Iran’s Terror Funding: The Unholy Alliance Exposed

31 January 2024 — The current geopolitical landscape has raised serious concerns, according to a recent statement by Lawler. He drew attention to an emerging alliance between China, Russia, and Iran that is becoming increasingly visible. Notably, he identified China as the largest consumer of Iranian petroleum. These sales are providing financial support for dangerous terrorist groups.

Lawler stressed the need for immediate action against Iran in response to over 150 attacks on U.S. military bases and personnel since October 7. Tragically, these assaults have resulted in three servicemembers losing their lives. He called on the administration for a decisive response against Iran.

A bipartisan bill designed to curb illegal funds supporting terrorism was approved in the House after October 7 but has hit a roadblock in the Senate. Lawler urged both Senate and administration officials to advance this bill as part of a comprehensive strategy against these threats.

Lawler believes that an effective response should not only be military or diplomatic but also economic: cutting off funding at its roots. This multi-pronged approach is essential for effectively fighting terrorism.

STORM ISHA Unleashes Fury: UK and Ireland Brace for Deadly Winds

22 January 2024 — The United Kingdom and Ireland are on high alert as Storm Isha ushers in torrential rain and potentially fatal winds. The Met Office, which serves as the national weather service, has declared a comprehensive wind warning covering virtually the entire U.K. Additionally, there’s a tornado risk looming over Northern Ireland, northern England, and certain regions of Scotland.

Meteorologist Tom Morgan cautions against “life-threatening” winds that could trigger power outages. Coastal areas might confront massive waves hurling debris onto roads while trees stand a chance of being uprooted. Gusts clocking 90 miles per hour have already been reported in Wales’ mountainous Snowdonia region.

Storm Isha is wreaking havoc on travel schedules with Scotland’s railway operator halting service from Sunday night through Monday morning’s peak hours. Network Rail is enforcing speed restrictions to ward off accidents caused by fallen trees or debris strewn across tracks. In western Ireland, locals are advised to steer clear of the coast owing to destructive gusts

This marks the ninth storm named since September to assail parts of the U.K., leading to toppled trees, power failures, and river valley floods. The harsh weather conditions persist in disrupting everyday life while posing considerable safety hazards.

UK Judges DISMISS Security Threats, HAND Citizenship to Isis Propagandist

01 January 2024 — British judges have recently overlooked concerns raised by the Home Office regarding a Sudanese migrant, referred to as “S3”. This individual entered the UK illegally in 2005 and again in 2018. Despite having his British passport revoked due to active dissemination of ISIS propaganda, he has now been granted UK citizenship and permanent anonymity.

S3’s legal representation argued that his deportation would infringe upon his human rights. They cited potential detention and torture risks in Sudan as reasons for him to remain in the UK. This argument swayed the justices, even though S3 has made multiple trips back to Sudan without facing any form of persecution. During one such visit in December 2016, he allegedly used social media platforms to spread ISIS propaganda.

The government presented a case suggesting that S3 is a threat to national security. MI5 claimed that he showed unwavering commitment towards extremist ideologies propagated by ISIS and could potentially influence others towards radicalization. However, his lawyers successfully invoked provisions from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) preventing his deportation.

Prominent Brexiteers like Nigel Farage believe that Rishi Sunak’s government must withdraw from ECHR for regaining control over Britain’s borders. The ECHR has been previously used as a shield against deportation for at least 53 convicted terrorists.

ISIS PROPAGANDIST Scores UK Citizenship: A Shocking Blow to National Security

01 January 2024 — In a controversial move, UK judges have granted citizenship to a Sudanese migrant, known as “S3”. This individual entered the UK illegally in 2005 and 2018. Despite clear evidence of his involvement in spreading ISIS propaganda, he has been awarded lifelong anonymity and British citizenship.

This decision was made under the premise that deporting S3 would infringe upon his human rights. The argument is that he could face detention and torture if returned to Sudan. However, this reasoning overlooks S3’s multiple trips back to his home country without any reported persecution.

During one of these visits in December 2016, MI5 security service alleges that S3 actively spread ISIS propaganda on social media platforms. The government has voiced concerns about the potential national security threat posed by S3 due to his extremist activities.

The case has sparked further debate about border control and national security implications. Earlier this year, it was revealed that at least 53 convicted terrorists were shielded from deportation due to justifications provided by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Critics like Nigel Farage argue for leaving ECHR as a means of regaining control over national borders.

ISRAEL CRUSHES Hamas: Unearths Valuable Intel Amidst Terrorist Takedown

03 November 2023 — Israel successfully seized control of a Hamas stronghold in Jabaliya, eliminating around 50 terrorists during the operation. This strategic move coincided with an airstrike on a high-ranking Hamas commander, leading to the collapse of several underground tunnels.

The global community has criticized Israel for allegedly targeting a “refugee camp”. However, these so-called camps are frequently utilized by Hamas for their operations. These are not newly established tent cities for displaced individuals but dense residential areas settled by Palestinian refugees following the Arab-Israeli wars in 1948 and 1967.

Upon capturing the stronghold, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) discovered crucial intelligence data. This includes operational orders and personal details of Hamas commanders and terrorists. The IDF is currently analyzing this information to aid in future counter-terrorism efforts.

The IDF has publicized photos displaying some of the materials uncovered during their operation within the stronghold.

IRAN Stands with HAMAS Leader Amidst Looming Israeli Threats

01 November 2023 — Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian in Qatar this past Tuesday. The meeting followed a deadly attack by the organization in Israel on October 7, resulting in a staggering loss of 1,400 lives. Despite the grim situation, Haniyeh voiced his belief that divine intervention would favor the faithful.

Haniyeh hinted at an apprehension within the Israel Defense Forces when it comes to confronting resistance groups in Gaza. Yet, Israeli leaders have suggested that dealing with their intelligence forces might prove more daunting than he expects. Yair Laid, the opposition leader, asserted on Monday that Israel’s mission should not cease until six prominent Hamas figures are neutralized.

Israel’s intelligence agencies — Mossad and Shin Bet — have reportedly formed a special unit named NILI to counter this threat. The unit’s name hails from an acronym used as a secret code by a covert pro-British spy group during World War I. In light of the recent massacre, there is growing anticipation that senior Hamas leaders will be targeted regardless of their location.

Israeli political figures are united in their resolve to dismantle Hamas following its unprecedented assault last October which led to over 1,400 fatalities and 5,400 injuries. Videos documenting these horrors were captured and disse

ISIS ‘BEATLES’ Member Admits Guilt: Aine Davis Pleads on Terrorism Charges in UK Court

17 October 2023 — Aine Davis, a British convert to Islam and suspected member of the notorious ISIS “Beatles” cell, confessed to terrorism charges in a UK court this Monday. The 39-year-old was deported back to Britain in August 2022 after serving time in a Turkish prison. Upon landing at London’s Luton Airport, British counterterrorism police promptly detained him.

Speaking via video link from a prison in southeast London, Davis admitted to possessing a firearm for terrorist activities and funding terrorism between 2013 and 2014. However, he refutes any association with the infamous “Beatles” cell — an Islamic State group notorious for torturing and executing Western hostages during the height of IS dominance over Syria and Iraq.

Two other alleged members of the “Beatles” cell, Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh are currently serving life sentences in the U.S., while another member known as “Jihadi John” was eliminated by drone strike back in 2015. Davis’s defense lawyer claimed that there had been unsuccessful attempts by Britain to extradite him for prosecution on home soil.; In