Resurgent Terrorism: UN Warns of Increasing ISIS Attacks in Syria

UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, alerted the Security Council about the rising threat of terrorism, particularly from ISIS, which is expected to double its attacks this year. The conflict, exacerbated by foreign involvement and regional tensions, has displaced millions. The UN calls for urgent humanitarian aid and political negotiations.

UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, warned the Security Council on Monday that terrorism is resurfacing in Syria, with ISIS attacks expected to double this year, jeopardizing civilians already in dire humanitarian conditions. Syria remains troubled by armed actors and foreign armies 13 years into its civil war.

ISIS, which once established a caliphate in parts of Syria and Iraq, continues to operate sleeper cells in both countries. Pedersen highlighted an increase in Israeli strikes on Syria, adding complexity to the regional security situation.

U.S. deputy ambassador Robert A. Wood criticized Iran for its role in the Syrian conflict. Iran's ambassador to the UN condemned Israeli airstrikes as violations of international law. Humanitarian aid is severely underfunded, with 16 million Syrians needing assistance. Pedersen and Rajasingham called for more humanitarian access and funding to alleviate the crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)