The Islamic State Khorasan, often referred to as ISIS-K, is a branch of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist organization. It operates primarily in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region and aims to establish a caliphate governed by strict Islamic law, similar to the goals of the broader IS group.
The term "Khorasan" refers to a historical region that includes parts of modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asia. ISIS-K emerged around 2015 and has since become known for its brutal tactics, including suicide bombings, targeted killings, and attacks on civilians.
One of the defining features of ISIS-K is its rivalry with the Taliban, another Islamist militant group in Afghanistan. While both groups share some ideological similarities, they have often clashed over control of territory and influence in the region.
ISIS-K gained international attention for several high-profile attacks, including the bombing of a Kabul airport in August 2021, which killed scores of Afghan civilians and U.S. service members. The group has also targeted religious minorities, government officials, and security forces in its campaign of violence.
Overall, ISIS-K represents a significant security threat in Afghanistan and the surrounding region, contributing to instability and violence in an already volatile area. Efforts to counter the group's influence and activities remain a priority for Afghan security forces, international coalition partners, and neighboring countries.
