Resurgence of Islamic State in Iraq and Syria

Abstract

A terrorist organization with a strong ideological presence is not totally vanquished just by the death of its members and the group's dormancy, even if they may have fallen. According to multiple works of literature, ISIS is considered as an inspiration by many other extremist groups and is blamed for the resurgence and rebirth of various terrorist groups around the world, in various forms and factions. Despite the loss of territorial presence in 2017, ISIS began to re-emerge in 2018. Notwithstanding efficient and successful counter ISIS measures by regional and international actors, the terrorist group is still actively reconstructing in Iraq and Syria. The goal of this research is to provide light on ISIS as a whole and the factors that led to it becoming the world's most destructive terrorist organization. Drawing on the group's history, actions, and subsequent global reactions, an attempt is made to map the potential problems they pose in the battle against terrorism. This article seeks to track ISIS's journey and rise to prominence by addressing its operational style, military and political organization, and significant internet presence. Despite being gradually weakened over the years, ISIS has not been crushed and is on the cusp of resurrection, albeit in more unpredictable and untimely forms.