UN Warns ISWAP Is Islamic State’s Most Active Affiliate as Sahel Threat Spreads

The United Nations has warned that Africa is now the region most affected by the Islamic State threat, with the Sahel, Lake Chad Basin and parts of Central Africa identified as key hotspots. At a UN Security Council briefing, counter-terrorism officials said the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has become the group’s most active affiliate globally. Although military operations have weakened its central leadership, the group has adapted through smaller and more flexible networks. The UN said extremist groups are increasingly using artificial intelligence, drones, encrypted platforms and virtual assets to recruit, raise funds and coordinate attacks. It called for stronger intelligence sharing, border security and regional cooperation, warning that insurgent activity is gradually spreading towards West Africa’s coastal states. Officials added that lasting progress will require more than military action, including efforts to address poverty, weak governance, political instability and fragile security institutions.

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