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ISIS Resurfaces with New Propaganda Targeting Syrian Leader

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. with-new-propaganda-targeting-syrian-leader.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 16:46 GMT by Seattle Times
      Locales: SYRIAN ARAB REPUBLIC, IRAQ

February 21st, 2026 - Despite losing its territorial caliphate, the Islamic State (ISIS) continues to actively propagate its ideology and incite violence, as evidenced by a recent statement denouncing Syria's interim president, Abd al-Rahman al-Hassan. Released on Thursday by the group's al-Amlaq media foundation and widely disseminated through ISIS-affiliated online channels, the statement labels al-Hassan a 'puppet' of Western and Turkish powers, and explicitly calls for renewed attacks against him, his government, and supporters.

This renewed rhetoric highlights ISIS's ongoing attempts to remain relevant in a complex Syrian landscape, even as it faces sustained military pressure from multiple actors. While ISIS no longer controls significant swathes of territory in Syria and Iraq, its capacity to generate propaganda and claim responsibility for attacks demonstrates a persistent, albeit diminished, influence. The statement serves as a stark reminder that the threat posed by extremist groups in the region remains significant.

Targeting Legitimacy: The 'Puppet' Narrative

The core of the ISIS statement centers around delegitimizing the Syrian Interim Government and its leadership. By branding al-Hassan as a 'slave to the tyrants,' ISIS attempts to portray the interim government as a tool of foreign powers, thereby eroding any domestic support it might possess. This tactic is a consistent feature of ISIS's messaging - framing opponents as lacking authenticity and serving external agendas. The use of emotive language like 'infidels' and 'tyrants' further aims to incite anger and justify violence amongst its followers.

Syria's Fragmented Governance The Syrian Interim Government, formed in 2013, operates as a transitional authority with limited control, primarily in parts of northern Syria. Its existence is heavily reliant on the support of Turkey and Western powers, a dependency ISIS strategically exploits in its propaganda. The ongoing struggle of the interim government to assert comprehensive authority over the northern regions creates a power vacuum that ISIS seeks to capitalize on, hoping to attract disillusioned individuals and re-establish a foothold.

Beyond Territorial Control: The Evolution of ISIS Tactics The loss of its territorial caliphate in 2019 forced ISIS to adapt its strategy. While the group's ambition of establishing a physical caliphate remains, it has increasingly focused on asymmetric warfare, including guerilla tactics, improvised explosive device (IED) attacks, and targeted assassinations. The recent statement underscores a shift toward prioritizing information warfare alongside kinetic operations. By maintaining a steady stream of propaganda, ISIS aims to inspire lone-wolf attacks, recruit new members, and keep its ideology alive.

Regional Implications and Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The continued activity of ISIS in Syria has far-reaching regional implications. The group's presence destabilizes the country, complicates the already complex Syrian civil war, and poses a threat to neighboring nations. Counter-terrorism efforts are crucial to containing the group's influence and preventing it from regaining strength. These efforts require a multi-faceted approach, including military operations, intelligence gathering, counter-propaganda initiatives, and addressing the root causes of extremism, such as political grievances and socioeconomic disparities.

Experts suggest that the statement's timing is likely calculated. Recent political developments in the region, coupled with ongoing instability in Syria, create a fertile ground for extremist narratives to flourish. The increase in global political tension also may serve as a backdrop to garner support. The group likely sees an opportunity to exploit these conditions to bolster its recruitment and inspire attacks.

The Challenge of Online Radicalization The dissemination of ISIS propaganda through online channels presents a significant challenge to counter-terrorism efforts. ISIS has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to changing online landscapes, utilizing encrypted messaging apps and social media platforms to reach potential recruits and spread its message. Combating online radicalization requires close collaboration between governments, tech companies, and civil society organizations to identify and remove extremist content, promote counter-narratives, and educate the public about the dangers of online radicalization.