US Intelligence: Al-Qaeda and ISIS Remain Top Threats to American Interests

DID Press: US intelligence community has identified Al-Qaeda and Islamic State as the most significant threats to American interests, according to its latest annual assessment.

The report says both groups are attempting to rebuild operational capabilities by exploiting political instability across parts of Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.

Estimates suggest Al-Qaeda maintains between 15,000 and 28,000 members globally, while ISIS is believed to have between 12,000 and 18,000 fighters. The fastest growth over the past five years has occurred in Africa, where some of the most active and violent affiliates are based.

The report highlights Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, Islamic State Khorasan Province and ISIS in Syria as the groups most likely to plan external attacks.

It also notes that the Taliban have conducted operations against ISIS-K targets and may have disrupted some of its activities. However, previous reports by the United Nations Security Council have confirmed the presence of Al-Qaeda and ISIS in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

The assessment further points to rising tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan, noting Islamabad’s frustration over militant groups operating from Afghan territory, alongside increasing domestic attacks.

In addition, the report raises concerns about potential risks posed by some Afghan nationals relocated to the United States in recent years. While it describes stricter immigration enforcement measures as positive, it warns that identifying individuals who may turn to violence after entry remains a significant challenge, particularly among tens of thousands of Afghan refugees admitted over the past five years.