Rebar Ahmed, the Interior Minister of the Kurdistan Region, emphasized that ISIS's ideology remains "very strong and continues to develop," noting that the group is becoming "more active" in Syria and Iraq. Regarding the recent meetings with U.S. officials, he described the talks as constructive.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Ahmed said after the events in Syria, ISIS has intensified its activities in Syria and Iraq and remains a strong threat.

He stressed that everyone must continue to cooperate and coordinate to eliminate the dangers of the group.

Following recent clashes between the Kurdish-led security forces in Aleppo and the Syrian army and tensions between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the government, the Rojava authorities issued a warning regarding the instability in the region and the potential exploitation of the situation by ISIS.

Amid the escalation in mid-January, the SDF announced its withdrawal from al-Hol camp—which detained 15,000 Syrians, 4,000 Iraqis, and 6,000 foreigners from various countries—citing the international community’s failure to take decisive action against ISIS. However, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the transfer of thousands of SDF members to Iraq and assured the public of a secure and orderly movement.

Meanwhile, ISIS spokesman Abu Hudhayfa al-Ansari declared in a recorded statement that they have entered a new phase of operations in Syria, adding that the current Damascus government is submitting to Western demands and is being influenced by foreign interests.

Minister: U.S. Describes Kurdistan as a Close and Strategic Ally

The minister emphasized that in the twelve-day war between Iran and Israel, they have tried to ensure that Iraq and the Kurdistan Region do not become part of that conflict, and they will continue to maintain this position. "The Kurdistan Region will not be a threat to any neighboring country."

Regarding their trip to the United States earlier this month, he described the visits as “productive and fruitful.”

Ahmed also affirmed that they met with all the necessary parties and stressed that Kurdistan is part of the anti-terrorism coalition.

At the meeting, the United States reiterated its support for the Kurdistan Region and announced that it treats Kurdistan as a very close and strategic friend in the region.

“We have shown our commitment to partnership and the continued fight against terrorism,” he added.