The Escalation of ISIS in Syria: The Followed Approach and the Significance of Timing
ISIS has intensified its attacks against Syrian government forces in Raqqa Province, coupled with a media campaign portraying the government as secular and apostate.
ISIS has launched multiple attacks against Syrian government forces in Raqqa Province, showcasing its renewed strategy of quick strikes against perceived easy targets. On February 22, the group released a new audio message from its spokesperson, Abu Hudhayfa al-Ansari, who labeled the Syrian government as secular and accused it of deviating from the true religion, claiming that Syria has shifted from Iranian to Turkish and American influence. On the same day, ISIS claimed responsibility for attacking a government member in Deir Ezzor and launching another attack against two more members using automatic weapons in Raqqa city.
The most significant assault occurred on February 23, where ISIS attacked a military post near Raqqa city, resulting in the death of four members of the Syrian security forces. This incident underscores a troubling trend of increased violence in a region that has seen fluctuating control between various factions, including ISIS, the Syrian government, and international forces. The Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed these casualties, indicating a potential escalation in armed confrontations between ISIS and government troopers.
As reported by Fawaz Al-Marsoumi, a journalist from eastern Syria, the group is focusing on swift assaults rather than prolonged engagements, highlighting its limitations in conducting extended battles or targeting high-profile figures. This strategic shift could reflect a desperate attempt by ISIS to maintain relevance and exert influence amid continuous military crackdowns and territorial losses, which could lead to a further destabilization of the region if not addressed sternly by governmental forces and their allies.