Latest news with #Iran-Backed
Memri
3 days ago
- Politics
- Memri
Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Weekly: May 24-31, 2025
The following are some of this week's reports from the MEMRI Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Project, which translates and analyzes content from sources monitored around the clock, among them the most important jihadi websites and blogs. (To view these reports in full, you must be a paying member of the JTTM; for membership information, send an email to jttmsubs@ with "Membership" in the subject line.) Note to media and government: For a full copy of these reports, send an email with the title of the report in the subject line to media@ Please include your name, title, and organization in your email. EXCLUSIVE: Palestinian Factions, Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias, Jihadi Clerics Celebrate Deadly Shooting At Jewish Event In Washington DC By Pro-Palestinian Activist Who Yelled 'Free Palestine!' On May 21, 2025, a shooting attack took place outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., where the American Jewish Committee was holding an event for young professionals. EXCLUSIVE: Reacting To Shooting At Jewish Event In Washington D.C., Iran-Backed Houthi Leader Dismisses 'Biased' Stance, 'Exploitation' Of Incident To Silence Anti-War Voices; Pro-Hamas Media Outlet Likens Shooter To Yahya Sinwar On May 21, 2025, a shooting attack took place outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., where the American Jewish Committee was holding an event for young professionals. EXCLUSIVE: New Sunni Jihadi Organization In Lebanon, The Ahmad Al-Assir Brigade, Calls To Overthrow Lebanon's 'Sectarian Regime' And Establish Muslim Government Under Its Auspices; Says U.S. Embassy Is 'Base Of Collaborators, Agents, And Spies' On May 24, 2025, a new Sunni jihadi organization in Lebanon opened a Telegram channel (at the time of writing its followers numbered 17) and posted an approximately three-minute video announcing its establishment. EXCLUSIVE: "The Free Masked Man Movement" – A New Opposition Organization In Saudi Arabia, Comes Out Against The "Tyranny And Corruption" Of The Royal Family; Builds Military And Security Capabilities Towards A Possible Confrontation With The Authorities On May 22, 2025, a new opposition movement to the Saudi regime announced its establishment. EXCLUSIVE: Nigerian Islamist Cleric With Ties To 2009 'Underwear Bomber' Denied Entry To Saudi Arabia, Sent Back To Nigeria A Nigerian cleric was deported from Saudi Arabia while attempting to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Syrian Opposition Group Claims Attack Against Russian Forces At Khmeimim Air Base in Syria's Latakia Governorate, Threatens Russia To Leave Syria Within Month Or 'We'll Send You Back To Russia As Headless Corpses' On May 21, 2025, a Syrian opposition group released an announcement on its Telegram channel claiming that two former HTS (Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham) operatives were killed in an "inghimasi" operation (commando-style attack behind enemy lines) against Russian forces at the Khmeimim Air Base, in Syria's Latakia governorate. In Interview With Lebanese Daily, Shari'a Official Of Syria's Ansar Al-Sunnah Battalions Declares Targeting Minorities Current Priority, Denies Affiliation With Islamic State (ISIS) In recent months, a new jihadi group has emerged in Syria claiming attacks on religious minorities, particularly Alawites and Druze. Anti-Syrian Government Faction Shares Memo Attributed To ISIS Threatening Security Personnel, Foreign Fighters: 'Repent Before It Is Too Late' On May 23, 2025, a Telegram channel which is affiliated with the country's Shi'ite Alawite community shared an alleged copy of a memo attributed to the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria, which it said was circulated on outlets "close to the organization." Islamic Resistance Front In Syria – Formidable In Might Militia Tightens Relations With Hizbullah-Backed Baqiyat Allah Brigades On May 23, 2025, the Islamic Resistance Front in Syria – Formidable in Might militia posted a joint press release on its Telegram channel with a militia which is backed by Lebanese Hizbullah, announcing that the leadership of both factions had recently held "a wide-ranging coordination meeting." Fatwa By Syria-Based Jihadi Clerics: Normalization With Israel Apostasy From Islam On May 22, 2025, a Syrian committee comprised of ten Islamic clerics based in Syria under the supervision of an Egyptian-born cleric, published a fatwa on its Telegram channel ruling that normalizing relations with Israel is forbidden by Islam and anyone who does so becomes an apostate, whose life and property are forfeit. Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Claims Two Same-Day Ballistic Missile Attacks On Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, Two Drone Attacks On Unidentified 'Vital Sites' In Haifa, Tel Aviv On May 22, 2025, the Iran-backed Ansar Allah Movement (the Houthis) issued statements claiming missile and drone attacks targeting Israel's Ben Gurion Airport as well as two unidentified "vital" sites in Haifa and Tel Aviv. Ansar Allah Houthi Movement Claims Ballistic Missile Attack On Ben Gurion International Airport Yemen's Ansar Allah Houthi Movement claimed responsibility for firing missiles at Ben Gurion International Airport, as well as a "vital target" near Tel Aviv, Israel. In His Weekly Speech, Yemen's Ansar Allah (Houthi) Movement Leader Denounces 'Atrocities' In Gaza, Calls For Islamic Awakening, Reaffirms Houthis' Continuous Support Of Gaza Against Israel On May 22, 2025, Yemen's Ansar Allah (Houthi) Movement's leader delivered his weekly speech in which he denounced the worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, criticizing Arab and Western alleged complicity. Pro-Hizbullah Daily: Southern Syrian Tribes Seeking Weapons, Training From Parties In Turkey To Confront Israel, Syrian Government On May 24, 2025, a pro-Hizbullah Lebanese daily published an article which quoted "field sources" in southern Syria's Daraa governorate, who claimed that "security tensions" have increased in the area due to the incursions of Israeli forces and fears of a resurgence of Islamic State (ISIS) cells, which were previously active in the area. Iran-Backed Media Outlets React To Yemen's Ansar Allah (Houthi) Movement's 'Naval Blockade' Of Haifa Port On May 19, 2025, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi Ansar Allah Houthi Movement declared the imposition of a naval blockade of Israel's Port of Haifa. Islamic State (ISIS) Provinces Escalate Attacks Across West Africa The Islamic State (ISIS) in West Africa and the Sahel launched coordinated attacks on military targets in Nigeria and Niger, causing significant casualties, destruction, and seizure of military equipment and facilities. Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Newsletter Praises West Africa Province For Attacks On Military Camps In Nigeria, Niger And Cameroon On May 22, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 496 of its weekly newsletter. ISKP Magazine Questions Encryption Claims Of Messaging App, Cautions Jihadis Against Using It, Assesses Security Of WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, Facebook, TikTok, Signal The most recent issue of an English-language monthly magazine published by a media outlet linked to the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), which defines itself as a supporting entity for the Islamic State (ISIS)," features a long article cautioning Islamic State fighters who started switching from Telegram to new social media platform Gem Space in view of the latter's weak security. Posters By Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Media Outlets Present Perpetrators Of Attacks In The West As Role Models, Encourage Media Incitement Of Jihad On May 23, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) official English-language media outlet published English translations of two posters by unofficial pro-ISIS media groups inciting attacks in the West and media jihad. ISIS Supporter Shares Post Arguing That Inciting Violence, Expressing Support For Terror Groups Is Permissible According To U.S. Free Speech Laws On May 24, 2025, a user on the Islamic State (ISIS)-operated server shared a post from an X (formerly Twitter) account. Islamic State (ISIS) Supporters Launch Fundraising Campaign For Jihad, Encourage Muslims To Be 'Mujahideen' With Their Wealth On May 24, 2025, a platform that publishes and spreads official Islamic State (ISIS) material advertised a fundraising campaign for a mujahideen organization. Reacting To Reports Of AI Model That Blackmailed Users, Islamic State (ISIS) Supporter Envisions Similar Model Created For Jihadi Activity On May 25, 2025, a user of the Islamic State (ISIS)-operated server envisioned the creation of an artificial intelligence (AI) engine by jihadis and their supporters. Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Outlet Releases Posters Exploiting Death Of Pope Francis To Discourage Interfaith Tolerance On May 19, 2025, a pro-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet released two English-language translations of posters originally created by pro-ISIS foundations. Supporter Of Islamic State (ISIS) Warns Against Joining WhatsApp Groups, Advises Other Supporters To Stay On Encrypted Forums A supporter of the Islamic State (ISIS) warned other supporters against joining WhatsApp groups which require phone numbers. Anti-ISIS Outlet Claims ISIS's Central Media Is 'Powerless' As Supporter Outlet Continues Fraudulent Activities, Noncompliance With Organization's Rules An anti-Islamic State (ISIS) channel on the Al-Qaeda-operated server posted a report highlighting ISIS's central media's inability to control a prolific pro-ISIS media outlet's non-adherence to the rules of the organization governing the dissemination of exclusive claims. Al-Qaeda Affiliate GSIM Documents Attack On Military Position In Central Mali; 40 Soldiers Killed, Vehicles And Large Quantities Of Military Equipment Captured On May 23, 2025, the official media outlet of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in the African Sahel, Jama'at Nusrat Al-Islam Wal-Muslimeen (the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims – GSIM), issued a brief "breaking" claim of an attack on a military position in Dioura, in central Mali's Mopti region, in which the group's fighters seized control over the site, adding that there were "reports of heavy casualties in the enemy ranks." Al-Qaeda Affiliate In Somalia Al-Shabab Claims Responsibility For Killing Two Ugandan Soldiers And Damaging The French Embassy In An Attack On Halane Training Facility In Mogadishu On May 20, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, Harakat Al-Shabab Al-Mujahideen (Al-Shabab), claimed responsibility for shelling the Halane Training Facility, described as the largest military base hosting international forces and "dozens" of Western embassies in Mogadishu. Pro-Al-Qaeda Ideologue Lambasts Arab Gulf States After Trump's Middle East Tour: 'If Supporting The Head Of Global Heresy With Trillions Is Not Heresy, Then There Is Not Heresy In The World[;] Do You Understand Who Is Funding The War Against Islam And Muslims?' An Al-Qaeda ideologue accused Arab Gulf States of betraying Muslims after their leaders recently received President Trump during his Middle East tour and concluded investment deals with Washington. Afghan Taliban Leader Mullah Hibbatullah Akhundzada To Cadets: 'Do Not Abandon Jihad, Do Not Abandon Supporting The Mujahideen, Do Not Be Afraid Of These Unbelievers... Prepare Yourselves For Martyrdom, Prepare Yourselves For Prison' On May 1, 2025, the Afghan Taliban's state-owned RTA TV released a Pashto-language video showing Taliban cadets demonstrating various skills at a graduation ceremony attended by senior Taliban leaders, including the Defense Minister Mullah.
Gulf Insider
17-03-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Insider
Pentagon Says Operations 'Continue' Overnight Against Yemen's Houthis
In the overnight hours (local), the US military has launched what appears to be a second wave of airstrikes on Yemen. US Central Command posted a new video Sunday saying that operations 'continue'… CENTCOM forces continue operations against Iran-backed Houthi terrorists… — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 17, 2025 'The United States and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are both vowing escalation after the U.S. launched airstrikes to deter the rebels from attacking military and commercial vessels on one of the world's busiest shipping corridors,' AP writes. Like with similar strikes under Biden – and now with Trump – where's Congress? What authorization is there for a new war in the Middle East? When you've lost the hawkish FoxCon pundit Ann Coulter… Why did we have to do this? Is it part of our constitution that we must be bombing someone at all times? — Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) March 16, 2025 Click here to read more Also read: Trump Orders New Large Scale Strikes On Iran-Backed Houthis In Yemen
CNN
16-03-2025
- Politics
- CNN
Trump Orders Airstrikes on Iran-Backed Houthis in Yemen - Fareed Zakaria GPS - Podcast on CNN Audio
Trump Orders Airstrikes on Iran-Backed Houthis in Yemen Fareed Zakaria GPS 42 mins Today on the show, Fareed speaks with Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer and Economist Editor-in-Chief Zanny Minton Beddoes about the latest developments in negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine. They also discuss the Trump administration's strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen and how President Trump's foreign policy is playing out in Europe. Next, as Trump targets pro-Palestinian activists at Columbia University, Fareed speaks with Harvard law professor Noah Feldman about what kind of speech is protected by the First Amendment. Finally, Ezra Klein, New York Times opinion columnist, and Derek Thompson, staff writer at The Atlantic, join the show to discuss their new book 'Abundance.' They describe what has made it so difficult for liberals to build and govern effectively. They lay out a vision for government that facilitates growth, innovation and prosperity. GUESTS: Ian Bremmer (@ianbremmer), Zanny Minton Beddoes (@zannymb), Noah Feldman (@NoahRFeldman), Ezra Klein (@ezraklein), Derek Thompson (@DKThomp)
Memri
21-02-2025
- Politics
- Memri
Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Weekly: February 15-22, 2025
The following are some of this week's reports from the MEMRI Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Project, which translates and analyzes content from sources monitored around the clock, among them the most important jihadi websites and blogs. (To view these reports in full, you must be a paying member of the JTTM; for membership information, send an email to jttmsubs@ with "Membership" in the subject line.) Note to media and government: For a full copy of these reports, send an email with the title of the report in the subject line to media@ Please include your name, title, and organization in your email. EXCLUSIVE: A Review Of The Use Of Tunnels By Hamas, Hizbullah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Ansar Allah (Houthis), And Other Jihadi Groups And Ramifications For U.S. National Security – With Foreword By General (Ret) Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr., USMC General (Ret) Kenneth F. Mckenzie Jr., USMC says of this large MEMRI study of terrorist use of tunnels: "This MEMRI report is timely and disturbing. They have done a remarkable job of exposing the new complexities of combat in a built-up urban area, and also how tunnels add a new and concerning dimension to conflict outside of urban areas." EXCLUSIVE: Celebrating The Shutdown Of USAID, Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias: The Agency Of The Great Satan Is Dying Capitalizing on President Donlad Trump's administration decision to close the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), a Telegram channel affiliated with Iran-backed militias in Iraq published, on February 11, 2025, a series of posters demonizing the work of the agency in Iraq. EXCLUSIVE: Al-Qaeda Central Command Calls To Foil Trump's Plan For Gaza By Targeting U.S., Israeli, Western Interests; Toppling Arab Regimes; Attacking In U.S. And West On February 19, 2025, Al-Qaeda's Central Command issued Arabic and Urdu versions of a two-page "Statement about the Plan to Expel Our Dear People in Gaza." EXCLUSIVE: Massachusetts Man Arrested For Threats On X And Google Against City Of Boston, Authorities, School Children; Threats Invoked ISIS And Al-Qaeda: 'Paralyze The City Of Boston' Massachusetts man was arrested on February 6, 2025, in Florida, accused of interstate transmission of threatening communications. EXCLUSIVE: Iran-Backed Pro-Russia Outlet Eulogized Iraqi National Killed In Ukraine Fighting Alongside Russians In The Fight Against 'America's Expansionism' Into Russian Land On February 3, 2025, a Telegram channel affiliated with Iran-backed militias in Iraq and supportive of Russia eulogized an Iraqi national who was killed in battle while fighting with Russian forces in Ukraine. EXCLUSIVE: Lebanese Daily: Iraq To Disconnect From Iran-Backed Axis Of Resistance; Unconfirmed Reports That Heads Of Shi'ite Militias Were Granted Asylum In Russia, Belarus On February 17, 2025 a Lebanese daily newspaper published an op-ed that claims that Iraq is working to disconnect, within several months, from the Iran-backed axis of resistance and to integrate the members of the Iran-backed Shi'ite militias in Iraq into the ranks of the Iraqi Armed Forces. EXCLUSIVE: London-Based Saudi Daily: Iran, Via Houthis Establishing Armed Militia In Horn Of Africa To Control International Shipping Lanes In Red Sea On February 16, 2025, the London-based Saudi daily newpaper published an article about steps being taken by Iran, via the Houthi Ansar Allah movement (the Houthis) to establish an armed militia in the Horn of Africa. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) To Integrate Into New Syrian Army, SDF Commander Says A commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced that SDF forces will integrate into the structure of the army of the new Government of Syria. Syrian President Al-Sharaa Appoints Seven-Member Preparatory Committee For Planned National Dialogue Conference On February 12, 2025, the Presidency of the Syrian Arab Republic issued a statement signed by President Ahmed Al-Sharaa aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani – who had previously headed jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) – announcing the formation of a preparatory committee for Syria's planned National Dialogue Conference. Syrian Security Forces Arrest Three For Involvement In Assad Regime's 2013 Tadamon Massacre On February 17, 2025, the government-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) quoted the head of the Public Security Administration (PSA) in Damascus who reported that "after surveillance and monitoring," the PSA had apprehended "one of the arch-criminals" responsible for the April 2013 massacre in Damascus' Tadamon neighborhood. Russia's Putin Congratulates Syrian President Al-Sharaa On His Appointment In Conversation Emphasizing 'Strong Strategic Ties' Between Both Countries, Expresses Readiness To Reconsider Agreements With Assad Regime On February 12, 2025, the Presidency of the Syrian Arab Republic reported that President Ahmed Al-Sharaa aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani – who had previously headed jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) – received a telephone call from Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulating him on his January 29 appointment as interim president of Syria. 'Syrian Popular Resistance' Explains Leadership's Cryptic 'Final Statement' As Intelligence Ruse; Accuses Rival Resistance Groups Of Lying, Being Run From Abroad, Serving Foreign Agendas On February 13, 2025, the "Syrian Popular Resistance," which opposes the new Syrian administration linked to jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), issued a series of "strategic clarifications" and "statements of clarification," explaining an earlier statement alleging that its leadership had ceased its activity and making accusations against rival resistance groups. Syria-Based Saudi Jihadi Cleric: Hamas Won The Battle Of Morals; Trump's Gaza Proposal Is Impulsive And Arrogant A Syria-based Saudi jihadi cleric published posts on X (formerly Twitter) sharing his perspective on the Israeli-Hamas conflict. The Islamic Resistance Front In Syria – Formidable In Might Claims Attack On IDF Forces in Southern Syria; Calls For 'Sweeping Revolution Against Occupation' On February 18, 2025, on its Telegram channel, the Islamic Resistance Front in Syria – Formidable in Might militia claimed responsibility for an attack on the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in southern Syria. Gaza-Based Palestinian Mujahideen Movement Dismisses President Trump's Proposal As 'Arrogant'; An Attempt To Restore 'Damaged Reputation' Of The U.S. After Afghanistan, Iraq; Commends Yemen's Ansar Allah Houthi The Gaza-based Palestinian Mujahideen Movement (PMM) continues its criticism of President Donald Trump's proposal to rebuild the Gaza Strip and resettle Palestinians elsewhere in the region. On X And BlueSky, Egypt-Based Graphic Designer Creates Pro-Sinwar, Nasrallah Content In English; Raises Funds On BuyMeACoffee An English-speaking Egyptian graphic artist on X and Bluesky shares original graphics which reflect her pro-Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthi ideology. Lebanese Daily Al-Akhbar: Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Prepares To Resume Military Operations If Israel Renews Its 'Aggression' On Gaza; Threatens That U.S. Plan To Displace Gazans Will 'Widen The Scope Of Resistance Axis' On February 13, 2025, the pro-Hizbullah Lebanese daily newspaper published an article titled "Sanaa Behind Gaza: Preparations for New Round." Senior Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Officials: We Will Strike U.S. And Israel With 'Painful Military Blows' If Attacks On Gaza Resume Or An Attempt Is Made To Expel Gazans On February 13-14, 2025, following the announcement of the Trump initiative to relocate the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the U.S. president's ultimatum to Hamas that if it does not release all the Israeli hostages, "the gates of hell will open on Gaza," senior Houthi officials threatened an immediate military response to every attack on Gaza, whether it be Israeli or American. In A Video, Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Celebrates Closure Of USAID For Its Alleged Hidden Agenda, Accusing It Of CIA Ties, Economic Sabotage In Yemen, And Intelligence Operations Under The Guise Of Humanitarian Aid On February 13, 2025, Yemen's Houthi Ansar Allah movement shared a video produced by an affiliated media outlet. Iran-Backed Militia In Iraq Questions Iraqi Government's Legitimacy After Iraq Invites Al-Sharaa To Baghdad; Condemns Al-Sharaa Recognition, Calls For Public Mobilization Against Political 'Betrayal And Corruption' On February 1 4 , 2025, Iraqi Foreign Minister announced that his government had extended an invitation to the new Syrian President, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, to attend the upcoming Arab League summit, scheduled to be held in Baghdad in May 2025. Deputy Commander Of Iran-Backed Iraqi Militia Al-Nujaba' Movement: 'Criminal Trump's Gaza Proposal Shows He Is Madman; Resistance Will Not Stand Idly By' On February 13, 2025, the deputy commander of the Iran-backed Iraqi militia, the Al-Nujaba Movement, shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) in which he commented on U.S. President Donald Trump's proposal to take over Gaza and resettle Palestinians in Arab countries. Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Claims 330 Casualties Among Puntland Security Forces In Northeastern Somalia Over A Week The first news article in Issue 482 of Islamic State (ISIS) weekly magazine released on February 13, 2025 summarizes recent operations by the ISIS affiliate in Somalia against forces of the autonomous Puntland region, claiming "more than 330 killed and wounded" in attacks by "soldiers of the caliphate." Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Editorial Denounces The Afghan Taliban For Its Embrace Of Democracy And Rejection Of Islamic Monotheism On February 13, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 482 of its weekly newsletter. Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) Claims Killing Eight Soldiers, Wounding 11 In Attack On Barracks In Eastern Democratic Republic Of Congo (DRC) On February 18, 2025, the Islamic State's (ISIS) official news agency released a statement claiming that, according to "military sources," ISIS operatives carried out an "armed assault" on the morning of February 17 targeting a Congolese army barracks near Mukondo, in the Lubero territory of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's (DRC) North-Kivu province. Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly: Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) Freed Over 80 Captured Christians After Conversion To Islam Issue 482 of Islamic State's (ISIS) weekly magazine, released on February 14, 2025, reported on the operations of Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Posters By German-Language, Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Outlet Incite Acts Of Stabbing, Car Ramming In Austria, Belgium, And Germany A German-language outlet supportive of the Islamic State (ISIS) started issuing threatening material inciting lone operatives to emulate the February 15, 2025, stabbing attack in Villach, Austria, as well as car ramming attacks in Austria, Belgium, and Germany. Islamic State (ISIS) Supporters Online Celebrate Austria Stabbing By 'Laughing Jihadi': 'Brother Is A Legend, May Allah Bless Him' On February 15, 2025, a 23-year-old Syrian asylum seeker carried out a stabbing attack in Villach, in Austria's Carinthia state, which resulted in the death of a 14-year-old boy and injuries to five others. Australian Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Preacher Solicits PayPal Donations To Fund Legal Battle Against Charges Of 'Antisemitic Rhetoric' On February 17, 2025, the Telegram channel run by a Sydney-based pro-ISIS preacher and his followers advertised a fundraising campaign for the preacher. Australia-Based Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Preacher Frames Lawsuit Against Him As 'Attack On Islam'; Calls On Muslim Community For Solidarity As He Faces Charge Of 'Antisemitic Rhetoric' February 13, 2025, a Sydney-based pro-Islamic State (ISIS) preacher published a three-minute video on Telegram providing an update on his legal case. Islamic State (ISIS) Supporters Discuss Using AI-Generated Models On February 18, 2025, a conversation among ISIS supporters revealed an insight into jihadist discussions on an ISIS-operated server, where members explored AI-generated tools for potential use in jihadi operations. Over Two Days, Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Claims Repelling Attacks By U.S.-Trained Special Forces, Government Forces North Of Mogadishu, Inflicting Casualties On February 14, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, Harakat Al-Shabab Al-Mujahideen (Al-Shabab), issued a statement claiming that Al-Shabab operatives repelled "fierce" joint attacks by U.S.-trained Somali special forces, operatives of the Somali intelligence apparatus, and Somali government militias on the outskirts of Balcad, north of Mogadishu. Syrian Outlets Report U.S. Airstrike In Idlib Countryside Killed Two Libyan Nationals Who Were Military Commanders In The Now-Dissolved Al-Qaeda Affiliate, Hurras Al-Din On February 16, 2025, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Forces conducted a precision airstrike in northwest Syria, killing a senior finance and logistics official in the Syria-based Al-Qaeda affiliate Hurras al-Din (Guardians of Religion). Al-Qaeda Affiliate GSIM Condemns Alliance Of Sahel States (AES) For 'Massacring,' Displacing Civilians To Establish Secularist Rule, Urges Locals To Unite Against 'Ruling Militias' On February 17, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in the African Sahel, Jama'at Nusrat Al-Islam Wal-Muslimeen (the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims – GSIM), issued an Arabic-language "Statement Regarding the Escalation of Aggression in the Sahel." Following U.S. Airstrike In Northwest Syria, Jordan-Based Pro-Al-Qaeda Ideologue: U.S.-Led Coalition Is Killing The Best Of Brothers On February 16, 2025, a Jordan-based pro-Al-Qaeda ideologue shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) eulogizing a senior member of the Al-Qaeda branch in Syria who was reportedly killed in a U.S. airstrike, on that same day, in northwest Syria. Jordan-Based Pro-Al-Qaeda Ideologue Condemns Turkey's 'Massacres' In Sahel; Warns That Support For Ahmed Al-Sharaa Validates 'Anti-Shari'a' Regime In Syria On February 18, 2025, a Jordan-based pro-Al-Qaeda ideologue posted commentary condemning Turkish military involvement in the African Sahel region to combat efforts to establish a shari'a-based governments there. Afghan Taliban-Linked Website Reports Arrests Of ISKP Fighters In Afghanistan: ISKP 'Has Established Operational Centers And Training Camps In Baluchistan [In Pakistan], Where Individuals From Various European And Asian Countries Are Being Trained' According to a website linked to the Afghan Taliban intelligence, the Taliban security forces executed extensive operations against the Islamic State Khurasan Province (ISKP) fighters in the northern Afghan provinces of Takhar, Kunduz, Baghlan, and Samangan. Afghan Taliban Writer Examines ISIS Strategy On Women: ISIS 'Encourages Women And Young Girls To Marry Its Fighters, Aiming To Raise A New Generation Indoctrinated With [ISIS] Ideology' In a recent article, Afghan Taliban writer examined Islamic State (ISIS) methods of recruitment women and children. Afghan Taliban Launch Massive Online Archive Of Urdu-, Pashtu-, Dari-, And Arabic-Language Jihadi Content Produced And Used During 20-Year Afghanistan War A media foundation linked to the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (the Afghan Taliban), has launched a specialized, multi-language website for broadcasting its audio-visual jihadi content. Afghan Taliban Condemn Trump's Gaza Plan: 'Such Plans... Reflect The Sinister Motives Of The Zionist Regime'; 'Hamas, Islamic Jihad, And Other Resistance Groups Must Develop Comprehensive Defense Strategies' This report includes the text of a statement issued by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA, i.e., the Afghan Taliban) as well as an editorial published by the IEA's state-owned news agency, outlining the official IEA position on U.S. President Donald Trump's proposal to take over Gaza.
Memri
31-01-2025
- Politics
- Memri
Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Weekly: January 25-February 1, 2025
The following are some of this week's reports from the MEMRI Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Project, which translates and analyzes content from sources monitored around the clock, among them the most important jihadi websites and blogs. (To view these reports in full, you must be a paying member of the JTTM; for membership information, send an email to jttmsubs@ with "Membership" in the subject line.) Note to media and government: For a full copy of these reports, send an email with the title of the report in the subject line to media@ Please include your name, title, and organization in your email. EXCLUSIVE: Syrian Leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa Delivers 'Victory Speech,' Outlines Syria's Future Roadmap, Announces Dissolution Of Ba'ath Party, Armed Factions Into New 'Syrian Army'; Military Operations Command Declares Al-Sharaa President Of Syria During Transition On January 29, 2025, Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani, described as the "leader of the new Syrian administration," delivered an address titled "Victory Speech." EXCLUSIVE: Syria-Based Jihadi Clerics Celebrate Al-Sharaa's Appointment As First Sunni President Of Syria In 54 Years, Canada-Based Pro-Al-Qaeda Cleric Declares Self-Appointed Dictator's Presidency A 'Disaster' On January 29, 2025, a "Convention to Announce the Victory of the Syrian Revolution" was held in Damascus, where Ahmed Al-Sharaa aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani, who had served as leader of jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), was announced interim president of Syria. EXCLUSIVE: Media Outlet Affiliated With Michigan-Based Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Preacher Condemns Syrian Leader Al-Sharaa For Congratulating Trump On Inauguration, Accuses The New Syrian Administration Of Spreading 'Polytheism' On January 20, 2025, a group of the Syrian militant factions linked to Syrian jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) released an English-language "Statement by the New Administration of Syria Congratulating President Donald J. Trump on his Inauguration." EXCLUSIVE: Independent Syrian Outlet Report: Before Their Evacuation, Iran-Backed Militias Coordinated With Islamic State (ISIS), Likely To Create Chaos In Syria, Left It Weapons And Ammunition On January 25, 2025, a Syrian human rights group reported that prior to the withdrawal of Iran-backed militias from Syria, their operatives met with Islamic State (ISIS) fighters, and possibly coordinated a plan to "create chaos in different regions of Syria." EXCLUSIVE: Telegram Channels Supporting Iran-Backed Militias Report Iraqi Refugee Who Burned Quran Killed In Sweden; Syrian Jihadi Cleric: His Death A Lesson For Those Who Disrespect Islam On January 29, 2025, several Telegram channels supporting Iran-backed militias in Iraq shared a report by the Swedish media claiming that Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika, who publicly burned copies of the Quran on several occasions, was shot to death in his apartment in the Swedish city of Södertälje, near Stockholm. EXCLUSIVE: Dari-Language Media Report Identifies Six Taliban Leaders With Close Ties To IRGC A Dari-language report titled "Six Pro-Iran Commanders Surrounding The Taliban Leader" in the Afghanistan International media outlet has revealed the identities of six senior Taliban leaders who have close ties to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC) and surround the Afghan Taliban leader, influencing his day-to-day decisions. Syrian Leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa Meets With Palestinian, Russian Delegations; Discussions With Russia Address Need To Restore 'Trust' With Syrians, Admit 'Past Mistakes' On January 28, 2025, a group of the Syrian militant factions, led by Syrian jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), reported on Telegram that HTS leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani, described as the "leader of the new Syrian administration," and the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the HTS-led Syrian transitional government, met with a Palestinian delegation headed by the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority and its Minister of Foreign Affairs. 'Formidable In Might – Islamic Resistance Front In Syria' Claims Downing Israeli Drone In First Operation Against Israeli Forces In Southern Syria On January 24, 2025, an Islamic Resistance front in Syria issued a statement claiming its first operation against Israeli forces in southern Syria, the alleged downing of an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) drone. Syrian State-Run News Agency Publishes Photos Asserting New Administration's Control Over Territorial Waters In Tartus On January 22, 2025, state-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) released a photoset showing a Syrian Coast Guard patrol in Syria's territorial waters near Arwad island, in the Tartus governorate. Syrian Foreign, Defense Ministers Meet With UN Officials, Call For Implementation Of 1974 UNDOF Mandate, Immediate Withdrawal Of Israeli Forces On January 29, 2025, the Foreign Ministry of the new Syrian administration, linked to jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), reported that the Foreign Minister and the Defense Minister met with a United Nations Under-Secretary-General and a Major-General. Unconfirmed Report: Body Of Kidnapped Syrian Female Professor Found, Her Fingers Cut Off On January 25, 2025, the Homs Security Department denied that a woman was found murdered, asserting that the search for her was still ongoing. Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) Supporters Document Preaching Campaigns In Which Hundreds Of Syrian Women Don Veil; Tell Secularists 'Die In Your Rage' In recent days, supporters of Syrian jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) have reported and documented preaching campaigns run by women in various parts of Syria which had been under the control of the Assad regime, in which garb was distributed to hundreds of women who committed to begin wearing it. In Video, Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS)-Linked Ministry Of Defense Special Forces Graduates Chant Antisemitic Slogans Threatening Israel: 'Khaybar, Khaybar, O Jews! The Army Of Muhammad Will Return!' On January 22, 2025, a Syrian media outlet shared a 12-second video, showing armed men in uniform marching in the city of Deir Al-Zour, in a military parade. Anti-HTS Syrian Resistance Calls On HTS Fighters To Defect: 'The Door Is Open For Those Who Want To Escape' A Syrian resistance group opposed to Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) called on HTS fighters to defect from the organization. Pro-Hamas Outlet Solicits Donations From Egyptians Via Mobile's Cash Wallet On January 29, 2025, a Telegram outlet supporting Hamas published a post soliciting donations from Egypt. Senior Ansar Allah Movement Officials: U.S. Terror Designation Does Not Serve Stability In Region; Promote Campaign On X Under Hashtag #USMotherOfTerrorism On January 22, 2025, the White House released an order signed by newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump setting in motion a process by which Yemen's Ansar Allah (Houthi) movement will be considered for designation as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). Ansar Allah Movement (Houthi) Political Bureau Denounces U.S. Terror Designation: The U.S. Is Stained With 'Bloody Terrorism' By Serving 'Zionist' Agenda; Reiterates 'Unwavering' Solidarity With Palestinians On January 22, 2025, newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump set in motion a process by which Yemen's Ansar Allah Movement (the Houthis) will be considered for designation as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). Iran-Backed Ansar Allah Movement (Houthis) Condemns Trump's 'Clean Out' Gaza Plan, Accuses U.S. Of Attempting To 'Eliminate Palestinian Identity,' Calls For A 'Just' Resolution On January 25, 2025, President Donald Trump stated that he had spoken to the king of Jordan to urge that country to admit more Palestinians, suggesting that Gazans should leave the Gaza Strip to "clean out" the enclave. Yemen's Ansar Allah Movement (Houthis) Holds Military Exercise Simulating Kidnapping Israeli Soldier, Shooting At Target With President Trump's Image On January 25, 2025, Yemen's Iran-backed Ansar Allah Movement (Houthis) published a nine-minute video, as well as photos, documenting a live-fire military exercise held in Sa'dah province. Yemeni Newspaper: Houthi Leaders Have Left Sanaa Due To 'Political And Military Changes In The Arena' On January 23, 2025, a Yemeni newspaper published a short report claiming that "prominent leaders" in Yemen's Iran-backed Ansar Allah Movement (the Houthis) had left the capital Sanaa due to "political and military changes in the arena." Following Clashes Between IDF And South Lebanese, Hizbullah Declares 'People Of Resistance' Don't Surrender; Pro-Hizbullah Daily: 'Days Of Liberation Have Begun' January 26, 2025, marked the end of the 60-day ceasefire agreed to on November 27, 2024, by Israel and Hizbullah in Lebanon. Hizbullah: Incomplete Israeli Withdrawal From South Lebanon Is 'Flagrant Breach Of Agreement;' Lebanon Must Employ 'Every Means' And 'Rescue Land From Claws Of Occupation' On November 27, 2024, Lebanese Hizbullah concluded a ceasefire with Israel. Saudi Outlet Cites Hizbullah Elite Fighter: 'We Misjudged Israel's Strength'; 'It Is Difficult To Rebuild, But Hizbullah Will Be Active Again In Southern Region' On January 21, 2025, the online portal of a Saudi-owned network published a report containing remarks by a Hizbullah officer admitting, in a small forum of Hizbullah members, that the organization was surprised at the level of intelligence Israel gathered, enabling it to destroy most facilities and tunnels Hizbullah had built since 2006 preparing for war against Israel. Hizbullah Leader Na'im Qassem: Al-Aqsa Flood Achieved Its Goal; Israel Failed To Destroy Hamas And Hizbullah; Israeli Withdrawal From Lebanon Should Not Be Delayed; Resistance Will Act At Time And In Manner It Sees Fit On January 27, 2025, at the conclusion of the 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hizbullah in Lebanon that was signed on November 27, 2024, and following an announcement by the White House on the January 26 about the extension of the ceasefire until February 18, 2025, Secretary-General of Lebanese Hizbullah, sheikh Na'im Qassem, delivered an approximately 50-minute televised speech. New Iraqi 'Islamic Resistance' Group Vows To Begin Military Operations In Syria To Protect Shi'ites, Alawites On January 25, 2025, a new Iraqi militia belonging to the "Islamic Resistance," issued a brief statement declaring it would soon begin military operations against the new Syrian administration linked to jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), in retaliation for atrocities it allegedly perpetrated against members of the country's Alawite and Shi'ite minorities. Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Editorial Warns Muslims In Sudan To Mistrust Warring Parties, Urges 'Supporters Of Mujahideen' To Form 'A Nucleus Of Jihad,' Strive To Recruit And Prepare For 'Long-Lasting Jihad' On January 23, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 479 of its weekly newsletter, Al-Naba'. Islamic State (ISIS) Critic Claims ISIS Command's Planned Attack On Shi'ite Shrine In Damascus Indicates 'Terrible Recklessness', 'Pursuit Of Media Victories' On January 22, 2025, an anti-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet, published a post claiming that the arrest of ISIS-linked individuals accused of planning an attack on Al-Sayyidah Zaynab, a Shi'ite shrine and pilgrimage site in Damascus, Syria, proves the "recklessness" of the group command, which continues to chase "victories" for the media. Islamic State (ISIS) Iraq Province Claims Killing, Wounding 13 Soldiers In 'Explosives Ambush' North Of Baghdad On January 24, 2025, the Islamic State's (ISIS) official news agency issued a statement claiming that ISIS operatives dealt a "harsh security blow" to Iraqi forces in a "well-executed operation" in the Al-Taremiyah district north of Baghdad. Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Newsletter Releases Exclusive Photos Documenting Operations In Somalia, Nigeria, Afghanistan, DRC, And Syria On January 23, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 479 of its weekly newsletter, Al-Naba'. Islamic State (ISIS)-Linked Telegram Accounts Promote New Bot To Recruit Disaffected Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) Members To ISIS On January 25, 2025, a platform that publishes and spreads official Islamic State (ISIS) material, promoted a new Telegram bot tasked with "guiding" and "communicating" with disaffected members of Syrian jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) who wish to join ISIS. Islamic State (ISIS) Supporters Launch German-Language Media Outlets To 'Incite' Muslims In The West On January 19, 2025, a user of an Islamic State (ISIS)-operated server launched a German-language channel on the platform. In Two Days, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) Claims Killing, Wounding About 60 Government Forces In Suicide Bombing, Firefight In Nigeria's Northern Borno State On January 27 and 28, 2025, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) claimed killing and wounding some 60 Nigerian soldiers and pro-government militiamen in the country's northeastern Borno state. New Islamic State (ISIS) Initiative Reaches Out To Foreign Fighters Linked To Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), Stresses They Do Not Need To Travel A new initiative affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS) has been continuing its outreach to members of the new Syrian administration linked to rival jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), seeking to convince them to defect and join ISIS. Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Poster Claims HTS Leader 'Sold' Foreign Fighters In Syria To 'Turks And Europeans' A Telegram bot supportive of the Islamic State (ISIS) released a poster arguing that foreign fighters in Syria were betrayed by the leader of Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS). Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Outlet Releases Step-By-Step Guide To Manufacture Explosive Materials A pro-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet released an English-language audio recording detailing the process of making TNT for use in a "vest bomb." Al-Qaeda Affiliate GSIM Claims Several Attacks On Burkinabe Army, Malian Army, And Russia's Wagner Group In Mali On January 26, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in the African Sahel issued several statements claiming attacks against two armies and Russia's Wagner private military company (PMC). Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Claims Attack On U.S.-Trained Special Forces In Southern Somalia, 18 Casualties In 'Fierce Clashes' In Central Somalia On January 27, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, Harakat Al-Shabab Al-Mujahideen (Al-Shabab), issued a statement claiming that Al-Shabab operatives detonated an explosion targeting a military convoy that had departed from an air base in Somalia's Lower Shabelle province. Al-Qaeda Affiliate GSIM Publishes Photos Of Its Da'wah Activities In Mali's Koulikoro On January 29, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in the African Sahel released a photoset documenting the group's da'wah (inviting to Islam) activities in Koulikoro area, Mali. Al-Qaeda In Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) Video Celebrates LA Wildfires, Declares Them Divine Punishment For U.S. Sins Against Allah And Crimes Against World's Muslims On January 28, 2025, the official media arm of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), released an approximately two-and-a-half-minute video by its affiliated media outlet, titled "America and the Painful Punishment." Al-Qaeda's Syrian Affiliate Hurras Al-Din Announces Dissolution By Order Of Al-Qaeda Central Command, Urges Syrian Leadership To Implement Shari'a On January 28, 2025, a two-page statement was released in the name of Al-Qaeda's Syrian affiliate titled "And whoever wages jihad, only does so for their own good. Surely Allah is not in need of His creation" (Quran 29:6), announcing the group's dissolution at the order of Al-Qaeda's Central Command. Canada-Based Pro-Al-Qaeda Cleric Scoffs At Al-Sharaa's 'Legacy' As Polytheism, A Submissive, Secular, 'Sick' State Led By 'The Obeyed Master' Canada-based pro-Al-Qaeda cleric continues to voice criticism of Syria's largest jihadi group, Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), and its leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani, for abandoning jihad as the path for liberation, and for adopting man-made laws dictated by the West. Afghan Taliban Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid Addresses Students At Kabul Madrassa: 'If We Had Made Progress In Scientific Terms, Would Our Muslim Brothers And Sisters In Gaza Be So Oppressed?' In a speech at a madrassa in Kabul, Afghan Taliban spokesman said that the Muslims' lack of education, notably that of the Palestinians in Gaza, is the cause of their miseries in modern times. Afghan Wife Of Iraqi Al-Qaeda Member Abd Al-Hadi Al-Iraqi Held In Guantanamo Calls For His Transfer Not To Iraq But To Afghanistan Or Another Country On January 14, 2025, a pro-Afghan Taliban YouTube channel released a Dari-language interview of the Afghan wife of an Iraqi member of Al-Qaeda who is in the Guantanamo Bay detention center. Former Afghan Mujahideen Commander Gulbuddin Hekmatyar: 'This Is Certainly A Great Victory For Palestinians And A Shameful Defeat For Israel And Its Supporters' In a Pashtu-language article, former mujahideen commander and leader of an Afghan political party, described the Gaza ceasefire as a victory for Palestinians and a surrender by Israel, noting also that Hamas has not only remained active and strong but had also executed effective attacks in recent days. Hizb-ut-Tahrir Commemorates Fall Of Ottoman Caliphate: 'The Latest Revolution In The Blessed Land Of Syria Has Been Caught In The Trap Of The Betrayal Of The American Puppet, Erdoğan' On January 22, 2025, Hizb-ut-Tahrir Afghanistan published a Pashtu-language article commemorating the fall of the Ottoman Caliphate, an event which it says has exposed Muslims worldwide to "massacre, occupation, and plunder of the unbeliever West, the Barbaric Jews, and America."
