US military general warns African terror groups gaining ability to attack homeland

A top United States military general, Gen. Michael Langley, who heads U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), issued a stark warning on Thursday about the escalating threat of terror groups in Africa and their potential to carry out attacks in the U.S.

According to Gen. Langley, the Sahel region of Africa has become a focal point of prolonged conflict and increasing instability, making it the epicenter of terrorism globally. He highlighted the rapid expansion of several terror groups in the region over the past three years, citing the significant growth of Al-Qaeda in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin, an Al-Qaeda affiliated faction.

AQIM, which now spans across Mali, Burkina Faso, and parts of Niger, has tripled in size since 2022, while Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin has grown fourfold, primarily in Burkina Faso. Gen. Langley emphasized the potential threat these groups pose to the U.S. homeland, urging vigilance and proactive measures to counter their activities.

The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan and the collapse of Syria have created a vacuum that ISIS and other terror groups are increasingly exploiting. Gen. Langley highlighted the surge in lone wolf attacks in the West as a result of intensified terrorism globally, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures.

In response to the evolving threat landscape, U.S. forces recently conducted an airstrike against the al Qaeda-linked al-Shabab in Somalia, where Islamist terrorists, including ISIS and al-Shabab, have long plagued the East African nation. The U.S. is also engaged in a strategic competition with China and Russia to build trust and influence with African governments to combat terror threats effectively.

Gen. Langley expressed concern about African soldiers receiving military training in Beijing and emulating U.S. International Military Education and Training programs, highlighting the need to monitor and address potential security implications. The proliferation of illicit activities like smuggling, human trafficking, and arms trading by terror groups further complicates efforts to stabilize the region and protect vulnerable populations.

As the threat of terrorism continues to evolve and expand in Africa, Gen. Langley stressed the importance of international cooperation and intelligence sharing to counter the growing menace. The U.S. remains committed to working with African partners to safeguard citizens and prevent terror groups from gaining a foothold that could jeopardize global security.

In conclusion, the warning issued by Gen. Langley serves as a sobering reminder of the persistent threat posed by terror groups in Africa and the urgent need for coordinated action to address this complex challenge. The U.S. and its allies must remain vigilant and proactive in countering terrorism to ensure the safety and security of all.