International coalition setting its eyes on ISIS threat in Africa

Ahmed Adel                                              

African countries are enlisting help from the international coalition against ISIS as they strive to put the lid on rampant terrorist activities in the continent.

The coalition has already formed a working group on Africa, amid growing fears from the growth of ISIS activities in the continent.

The American military daily, Stars and Stripes, referred to an announcement by the US and Italy in Brussels earlier this month about the establishment of the focus group for Africa within the international coalition to confront ISIS.

The newspaper noted that Morocco and Niger would co-chair the new group together with the US and Italy.

Strengthening African capabilities

Stars and Stripes added that the new working group would study the threats posed by ISIS in Africa.

It will also contribute to coordination on combating terrorist groups and strengthen the capabilities of African countries in fighting these groups.

According to the newspaper, US officials have warned against the spread of the terrorist threat in Africa.

They prompt US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to declare his country’s support to the coalition’s efforts in the continent.

Terrorist attacks in the Sahel region have nearly doubled since 2017.

According to United Nations estimates, more than 29 million people are in need of humanitarian aid, historically the highest level ever.

Morocco as co-chair

According to a statement by the Moroccan Foreign Ministry, the selection of Rabat to be the co-chair of the new group confirms the Kingdom’s leading role at the regional and international levels in the fight against terrorism and support for peace, security and stability in Africa.

Italian Foreign Minister, Luigi Di Maio, called for forming the group in June.

He said his call came against the backdrop of rising terrorist threats in the continent.