Experts Warn of Increased ISIS Threat in Syria

The collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria raises concerns over a potential increase in threats from Islamic State (IS) to Europe, according to former MI6 chief Sir Alex Younger. He highlighted that thousands of IS fighters currently detained by Kurdish groups could escape if those holding them lose control. The situation follows Assad's recent flight to Russia amid a rapid takeover by opposition forces, which has led to fears of a security vacuum. Experts warn that this vacuum could allow for the re-emergence of extremist groups, reminiscent of past conflicts in Libya and Iraq. The US military remains engaged in the region to counter this threat, though future troop presence is uncertain with incoming political changes. Younger stressed the importance of a Syrian-led resolution while acknowledging the imminent security risks posed by IS remnants.