UN Chief: 34 Groups Now Allied to ISIS Extremists

Ban said ISIS poses “an unprecedented threat,” because of its ability to persuade groups from several countries.

The number of ISIS allies will only grow in 2016, according to the UN Secretary-General. (Photo: Reuters)

Thirty-four militant groups from around the world had reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) extremist group as of mid-December – and that number will only grow in 2016, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a report on Friday.

Ban said ISIS poses “an unprecedented threat,” because of its ability to persuade groups from countries like the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Libya and Nigeria to pledge their allegiance.

He said UN member states should also prepare for an increase in attacks by ISIS-associated groups traveling to other countries to launch attacks and develop networks.

The recent expansion of the ISIL sphere of influence across west and north Africa, the Middle East and south and southeast Asia demonstrates the speed and scale at which the gravity of the threat has evolved in just 18 months.

<b> Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General, United Nations</b>

Adding to the threat, IS is “the world’s wealthiest terrorist organisation,” Ban said, citing estimates the group generated $400-$500 million from oil and oil products in 2015, despite an embargo.