Mỹ Reveals Perpetrator behind Moscow Bloodbath: Unveiling the Culprit
The recent gruesome terrorist attack in Moscow has left the world in shock and mourning. Business Today brings you the latest updates on the investigation into this horrifying incident. According to The New York Times (NYT), ISIS-K, a branch of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) terrorist organization, has claimed responsibility for the attack on Crocus City Hall. This popular shopping and music venue on the outskirts of Moscow witnessed a devastating assault that resulted in the loss of at least 60 lives and left 145 people injured[^1^].
ISIS-K’s Targeting of Russia
US officials have confirmed this declaration, revealing that American intelligence had gathered information in March that indicated the Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K), the Afghan branch of IS, had planned an attack in Moscow. It is known that IS operatives have been active in Russia, specifically targeting the country for the past two years[^1^].
Image: Moscow concert hall shooting. Source: Los Angeles Times[^1^]
ISIS-K’s Brutality
Established in 2015 by dissatisfied members of the Taliban in Pakistan, ISIS-K has experienced a significant decrease in its ranks, now numbering between 1,500 and 2,000 militants. This decline is mainly attributed to US airstrikes and special forces raids conducted in Afghanistan, targeting ISIS-K leaders[^2^].
Image: ISIS-K members in Afghanistan. Source: Herald Sun[^2^]
However, during the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, ISIS-K retaliated with a devastating suicide bombing at the Kabul international airport in August. This attack resulted in the deaths of 13 US service members and 170 civilians. The assault allowed ISIS-K to regain strength and pose a significant threat to the Taliban government[^2^].
Since then, the Taliban has vigorously fought against ISIS-K in Afghanistan. Security forces have successfully prevented ISIS-K from expanding its territorial control or recruiting a significant number of former Taliban fighters. This remains one of the worst-case scenarios following the collapse of the Western-backed Afghan government[^2^].
Speaking to the US House Committee on Armed Services on March 21, General Michael E. Kurilla, head of the US Army’s Central Command, stated that ISIS-K is still capable of and determined to attack US and Western interests abroad[^2^].
Video: Moscow terror attack. Source: Guardian[^2^]
US officials believe that IS is actively seeking to expand its operations beyond its base. European counterterrorism officials have reported successfully foiling several recent ISIS-K terror plots in the region[^2^].
In early March, the US government received information regarding a planned terrorist attack in Moscow, potentially targeting large gatherings, including concerts. As a precautionary measure, the US Department of State issued an advisory to American citizens in Russia. The US government also shared this information with the Russian authorities, maintaining the longstanding practice of sharing security-related warnings between the two nations[^2^].
ISIS-K, which has repeatedly threatened Iran due to its perceived polytheism and apostasy, has now claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow. The terrorist organization often criticizes President Vladimir Putin in its propaganda, accusing the Kremlin of shedding Muslim blood through its involvement in Afghanistan, Chechnya, and Syria[^2^].
As we await further updates on the investigation, our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families. Business Today remains committed to bringing you the latest news on this developing story.
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[^1^]: Source: The New York Times
[^2^]: Source: Business Today