For some time now, the name “ISIS,” one of the most prominent symbols of ideological terrorism in this century, has once again appeared in global headlines. Traces of this group—widely described as having been cultivated by major Western powers—can be seen in recent terrorist incidents from Australia and Pakistan to the Homs region of Syria. These attacks suggest that despite its battlefield defeats in past years, ISIS is rebuilding its operational capacity and reorganizing its forces. Beyond being merely a military organization, ISIS is a violent and exclusivist ideology that pursues its political and ideological aims by spreading fear, undermining social order, and fostering insecurity.
Deep Resentment Toward the Commander
A key element in assessing the ISIS threat is the group’s deep resentment toward Lieutenant General Haj Qasem Soleimani. Soleimani’s presence and pivotal role in the fight against ISIS—especially in Iraq and Syria—severely weakened the group’s structure and operations. ISIS views this defeat not only as a military setback but also as an ideological humiliation, and it has therefore sought revenge against operational commanders on the opposing side. For this reason, the approach of the anniversary of General Soleimani’s martyrdom may serve as a trigger for terrorist operations and provocative actions by this group in the region and even inside the country. Experience shows that such organizations often exploit symbols and personalities whom they blame for their defeat, using them as targets—or as pretexts—to threaten security and unsettle public opinion.
ISIS is rooted in an extremist ideology that rejects political, human, and religious legitimacy. The group is not only opposed to ordinary life and human rights; with a networked, transnational structure, it coordinates terrorist operations across different areas and exploits security vacuums and weaknesses in oversight. Recent activity by the group, accompanied by a wave of propaganda and media messaging, indicates that ISIS is seeking to rebuild its strength and return to the region’s strategic arena.
From a geopolitical perspective, it should not be overlooked that some extra-regional powers, including the United States and the Zionist regime, have pursued their objectives by using ISIS as a tool of pressure and influence. Such support is not necessarily direct, but can be observed through the creation of security vacuums, indirect financing, and regional policies. As an actor in broader power rivalries, ISIS takes advantage of these conditions to rebuild its influence and freedom of action.
A National Security Imperative
From a national security standpoint, it is essential that the country’s security institutions maintain strategic vigilance toward this threat. Prioritizing the identification of clandestine networks, anticipating operational pathways, preventing the infiltration of terrorist elements, and expanding regional and international intelligence cooperation is vital. Paying close attention to the social and ideological dimensions of the threat is also crucial, because ISIS is not merely a military danger; it is an ideological movement that can target public opinion and intensify psychological insecurity.
ISIS’s hostility toward Soleimani indicates that the group’s operations go beyond purely military targeting. These terrorists seek to exploit sensitive contexts and national and religious occasions to generate psychological and symbolic intimidation. The anniversary of General Soleimani’s martyrdom—while it should be an occasion to remember strength and sacrifice—may also become a focal point for ISIS provocations. This underscores the need for full preparedness and coordination among security and intelligence agencies.
From religious and social perspectives as well, confronting ISIS requires a deep understanding of the group’s ideology. By relying on extremist and violent ideas, ISIS seeks to distort human and religious values and to spread fear and insecurity within society. Countering it cannot be limited to military action; it also requires cultural and ideological efforts and stronger public awareness of the dangers posed by this movement.
Ultimately, ISIS’s return to the global and regional stage must be treated as a serious alarm. With its violent nature, behind-the-scenes geopolitical aims, and deep hostility toward figures such as General Soleimani, the group can jeopardize national security and regional stability. Vigilance, coordination among security institutions, and preventive action are the only ways to confront this multi-layered threat. Any negligence or underestimation of ISIS’s capabilities could impose irreparable costs on the security, stability, and future of the region.
* This article was first published on December 2025 in Nournews and has been republished into English by TLF for its readers. The opinions expressed in this translated or hosted article do not necessarily reflect the views or editorial positions of TLF.
Photo: Nournews