The Straits Times
10 December 2017
- RSIS
- Media Mentions
- How Real Is the Threat?
How Real Is the Threat?
The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) was dealt a heavy military blow this year. But the threat it poses is far from over, security experts said at a Sunday Times panel discussion on terrorism last week.
Associate Professor Kumar Ramakrishna of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies said as the terror group loses territory, its leadership has been shifting its strategy to more decentralised operations, posing a greater threat.
Countries in this region are at risk on three fronts, namely foreign fighters, existing terror groups and lone wolves, he said.
“The bar is lower; you don’t need to learn how to make a bomb,” said Prof Kumar. “You can drive a truck or car and mow down pedestrians.”
Add to this the fact that Singapore is seen by militants as an iconic target, and where social ties could be frayed in the aftermath of an attack.
Prof Kumar said: “Militants will consider a successful strike against Singapore as a major, symbolic, psychological and political boost.”
GPO / NSSP / Online / Print
Last updated on 11/12/2017
