As we have heard, Daesh and its affiliates continue to pose a serious and evolving threat to international peace and security.
I will make three points.
First, Daesh continues to spread terror across multiple regions.
Collective pressure is required to prevent them from regrouping to the levels we have seen previously.
In South Asia, counter terrorism efforts against ISKP led by Pakistan have been instrumental in diminishing the group’s capabilities.
In Iraq, the United Kingdom contributes to the Combined Joint Task Force’s Operation Inherent Resolve, which, in partnership with Iraq’s armed forces, has effectively suppressed Daesh and enhanced regional security.
In Syria, there is renewed hope for lasting peace and security, but the threat from Daesh remains.
We must ensure that Daesh cannot exploit the current political transition to regain a foothold in that country.
And across Africa, Daesh attacks have increased, and it has used its appalling violence as a source of propaganda.
We support African-led initiatives to combat this threat.
Second, Daesh continues to adapt, leveraging propaganda to radicalise and recruit its supporters.
It aims to expand its influence by manipulating narratives and exploiting societal divisions.
To counter this, we should invest in comprehensive strategies, addressing both upstream drivers of radicalisation and downstream manifestations of violence.
The United Kingdom’s Counter-Daesh Communications Cell has a strong track record in contesting Daesh’s narrative and degrading its ideological appeal.
Third, the United Kingdom welcomes the focus FATF has given to countering terrorist financing under the leadership of President de Anda.
FATF and its Global Network have helped Member States to achieve meaningful and sustained reforms through their robust monitoring and accountability process.
Their work assists our collective understanding and response to current and emerging terrorist financing risks.
Finally, the enduring threat posed by Daesh demands unified and sustained international pressure.
The United Kingdom remains committed to working with all partners to combat Daesh and its twisted ideology and to guard against the threat it poses to international peace and security.
