24-3-2024 (MOSCOW) The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a horrific assault on a concert hall in suburban Moscow, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 133 lives, marking one of the deadliest incidents witnessed in Russia in recent years.
Amidst ongoing conflict in Ukraine, both Moscow and Kyiv exchanged mutual accusations on Saturday, despite assertions from the US regarding evidence supporting the jihadists’ involvement.
According to The Spectator Index, ISIS released bodycam footage of the Moscow terrorist attack. Additionally, there were claims of “pre-planned action” and the use of “advanced technology” by the terrorists.
Footage of the Moscow attack from the shooter’s phone pic.twitter.com/xnW2TOvKUP
— What the media hides. (@narrative_hole) March 23, 2024
Commenting on the situation, a statement by ISIS on Saturday, as reported by AP, framed the attack within the context of the ongoing war between the extremist group and nations they accuse of fighting Islam.
Islamic State (IS), an offshoot of al-Qaida, gained significant control over parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014. During this period, it initiated a brutal campaign targeting the Yazidis, a religious minority in northern Iraq, along with other communities.
While a U.S.-led coalition largely defeated IS on the battlefield by 2018, remnants of the group persist in remote desert hideouts within both nations. Moreover, IS affiliates maintain a presence in regions such as Afghanistan, West Africa, and the Far East.
In light of security concerns, the US Embassy in Moscow issued a warning to U.S. citizens on March 7, monitoring reports of extremists planning to target large gatherings, including concerts, AP reported.
Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the US warning, dismissing it as an attempt to intimidate Russians.
Citing Russian state media TASS, CNN reported that Russia’s Investigative Committee stated all four individuals believed to have carried out the terrorist attack have been apprehended and are undergoing interrogation in Moscow.
The attack unfolded when approximately five armed individuals unleashed gunfire and explosives within the packed Crocus City Hall, moments before a music band was scheduled to perform, sparking widespread panic among attendees.
Meanwhile, President Putin has declared March 24 a day of ‘national mourning’ and has pledged to bring those responsible for the attack to justice, as reported by TASS.
