Warnings about the development of digital terrorism methods and the exploitation of global crises

In his latest report submitted to the General Assembly, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned of the continued grave danger of terrorism to international peace and security, highlighting the ability of terrorist organizations, especially ISIS and Al-Qaeda and their affiliates, to adapt and expand their influence in conflict areas in Africa, the Middle East and Afghanistan.

The report, which covers the organization’s activities between January 2023 and December 2025, explained that these groups deliberately exploit modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, virtual assets, and social media platforms, to finance their operations and recruit young people and children.
The Secretary-General stressed that confronting this threat requires addressing its root causes, such as poverty, inequality, and weak governance through sustainable development, stressing the close interrelationship between the fight against terrorism, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.

The report reviewed the efforts of the United Nations and its entities in supporting the capabilities of member states to secure borders, combat the financing of terrorism, and develop comprehensive legal frameworks, reiterating its call to member states to update their strategies in accordance with the “Charter for the Future,” and to accelerate the safe return of their nationals detained in camps in northeastern Syria, while praising the steps taken by Iraq in this context.

The Secretary-General concluded by calling on the international community to strengthen the institutional and legal capabilities of states, and to provide additional resources to the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, to ensure a more comprehensive and effective global response that addresses emerging threats and supports the implementation of the global strategy.