Is ISIL a Threat to India? Points from the Latest UN Report (2025)

The UN analytical support and sanctions monitoring team has released its 35th report that analyzes ISIL’s threat to the world. Here are some interesting points related to India:

The report states that handlers attempted to incite lone-wolf attacks through their India-based supporters. Analysts have often argued that India faces greater threats from internal radicalization than external forces, particularly from terror sympathizers.

Anti-India propaganda from terror-linked publications, such as the pro-ISIL magazine Serat ul-Haq, is now spreading on social media. These platforms frequently highlight Babri Masjid and selectively amplify one-sided, inflammatory narratives about attacks on Muslims. The goal is to fuel a victim mentality, making many believe these narratives are the absolute truth.

Those unaware of online radicalization tactics easily fall for such content, and an extreme victim mindset often leads to anger, pushing individuals toward extremist groups. Recently, the Israel-Hamas war has been exploited for recruitment by terror organizations like ISIL.

I feel it’s important for India to be wary of such anti-India propaganda online. Not every piece of news is covered to bring awareness. Selective activism and outrage are often used to misguide youth into taking up arms. There should be awareness regarding this, so people know what to expect.

Since India has established some level of cordial relations with the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, it must remain cautious of this engagement. The Taliban has expressed interest in having its representatives work in India’s embassy, but given the group’s radical nature, India should approach this with hesitation.

At the end of the day, for groups like the Taliban, religious extremism often takes precedence over diplomacy.

To read the full report, go here: docs.un.org/en/S/2025/71