by Claire Coyne with Harleen Gambhir
ISIS continued to
develop its regional presence despite setbacks in Iraq and Syria in February.
The organization launched spectacular attacks to weaken security in Iraq and
Syria as it faces territorial losses, declining revenue, and decreased foreign
fighter inflows in both countries. ISIS meanwhile strengthened its presence in
Libya, launching large-scale attacks and defending its stronghold of Sirte
despite ground opposition from rival militant groups and airstrikes by the U.S.
and other actors. ISIS also maintained operational capability in other regions,
as demonstrated by its attacks in the Gulf, Maghreb, and the Caucasus. ISIS’s
military campaigns and safe haven outside of Iraq and Syria give it strategic
resiliency that will ensure its longevity despite pressure on its Caliphate.
